Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that causes sudden and severe joint pain, often affecting the feet and ankles. If you’ve experienced intense discomfort in a joint—especially your big toe—you may be dealing with a gout attack.
But what exactly causes these flare-ups, and how can you prevent them? In this article, we’ll explain what gout is, what causes it, and how it progresses through four stages.
If you’re struggling with joint pain or think you may be experiencing gout, our expert team at Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute is here to help. Schedule an appointment today at our office in Austin, Texas, to get a personalized evaluation and a treatment plan designed to relieve your pain and prevent future flare-ups.
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. When your body produces too much uric acid or your kidneys can’t remove it effectively, sharp urate crystals can form and settle in an affected joint. The result is a sudden, often excruciating attack of joint pain, redness, warmth, and swelling—commonly in the big toe but also in the ankles, knees, and other joints.
Gout occurs when there is an excess of uric acid in the bloodstream—a condition known as hyperuricemia. Uric acid is a waste product created when the body breaks down purines, which are substances found in the body and in certain foods, especially organ meats, red meat, seafood, and foods containing high fructose corn syrup.
Your body normally dissolves uric acid in the blood and eliminates it through the kidneys. However, when there’s too much uric acid or the kidneys fail to eliminate enough, uric acid levels rise and crystals may form in the joints, leading to painful flare-ups.
Understanding what can trigger gout is essential for prevention. Common triggers include:
To diagnose gout, your healthcare provider may perform:
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent gout attacks from becoming chronic.
Gout treatment involves both managing pain and preventing future attacks. Options include:
Every patient is different, so it’s important to work with a podiatrist or healthcare provider to find a gout treatment plan that’s right for you.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gout or are concerned about frequent attacks, don’t wait for the next flare-up. At Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute, our experienced podiatrists in Austin, TX, specialize in diagnosing and treating inflammatory arthritis like gout.
From early intervention to long-term management plans tailored to your lifestyle, we’re here to help you reduce pain, prevent gout attacks, and improve your quality of life. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward relief and healthier joints.
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