What's "Gout" You Down?

Gout is a condition that results from a build-up of uric acid in your blood stream. Although many people may have higher levels and never develop gout, some people will develop uric acid crystals that form gout. Gout is most common in your big toe and is often described as a red hot toe that cannot stand even the weight of the bed sheet. It is swollen, tender, red, and extremely painful. Although this is the most common location, gout has been seen in the ankle, foot, knees etc. The attacks will often times go away on their own, but they are so painful that treatment is often sought. Gout is often a reoccurring condition and so if you have had a case before, then you will most likely have gout again.

There are several medications that your physician can prescribe, both for the short term attack and for the long-term prevention. In the meantime, there are some predisposing factors to gout including excessive alcohol intake, obesity, daily meat and seafood intake and some medications. Although pain relief is very important, it is important that you do not use aspirin because it will exacerbate the condition. Using pain killers like ibuprofen and Aleve however, are fine and will provide you with some relief. It is important to try to avoid excessive amounts of any of these if you or a close family member has a history of gout because gout does have a genetic component. Typically gout can be relieved solely by medications.

It is important that if you suspect gout or you are suffering from any pain in your joints that you seek medical attention. If you are in the Newburyport, North Andover,  Chelmsford, Lowell or Billerica Massachusetts  area and you have been suffereing from any of these symptoms, our office staff would be more than happy to help you determine the cause of your pain and get you back on your feet again. Gout can lead to joint injury leaving you with long-lasting limitations. If the condition is dealt with quickly though, it will have no marked effects on your joints.