If you’ve recently experienced waking up in the middle of the night with extreme, throbbing pain in the joint at the base of your big toe, you may have had an episode of gout. At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we see more cases of gout during the holiday season. Find out why and other important information about this condition with the facts below.

  • FACT: Gout is an arthritic condition (sometimes known as gouty arthritis). It is a result of uric acid building up and crystallizing in a joint.

  • FACT: Gout can occur in any joint, but the place it most commonly happens is the big toe. It may be because it is farther from the heart and, therefore, lower in temperature, which increases the risk of crystallization. The excessive use and pressure from walking may also play a role.

  • FACT: The people most susceptible to gout are men aged 40 to 60. However, gout can attack men or women at younger ages as well.

  • FACT: Gout can have many sources. Some of these include diabetes and hypertension and chemotherapy, surgery, stress, obesity, and taking certain medications and vitamins.

  • FACT: For many patients, some foods and beverages can trigger a gout attack. These include red meat, shellfish, organ meats, red wine, heavy sauces, brandy, and beer. These items are frequently featured in holiday meals and increased in cases at this time of the year. Patients with a sensitivity to these foods may need to limit or even eliminate them from their diet severely.

  • FACT: There are a few treatment methods available for gout.

Our podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas, can prescribe medications to help with the flare-up and prevent future attacks. Resting and elevated the affected foot will also be necessary. Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding known triggers for gout attacks will also be recommended.

If you suspect you may have gout or have additional questions about this condition, contact our Cromwell office today by calling: (860) 632-5499.

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Call Today (860) 632-5499

162 West St Ste K Cromwell, CT 06416