Gout: Pain in Your Big Toe

Gout is a disease of the joints. It occurs when there is a build up of uric acid deposits. It most often affects the big toe, but can cause pain in other joints as well including the ankle, fingers and knee. Gout usually causes symptoms in only one joint at a time. If gout attacks occur frequently, several times a year, the disease can cause joint deformity and limited mobility of the affected area.

Features

There is inflammation in the affected joint. The entire area becomes swollen, red and tender. The pain can be excruciating. If it is not treated, the symptoms can continue for five to 10 days. The affected joint is often one that has been affected by arthritis in the past.

Onset and Frequency

Gout attacks usually occur without warning and often when victims are at rest. The sudden pain is throbbing and consistent. The inflammation can cause the area to be crushingly painful to the slightest touch. Sufferers need to seek immediate medical treatment as the pain can last for days. Some persons experience gout attacks less than once a year while others may have multiple attacks annually.

Risk Factors

Those who eat a diet high in purine rich foods are the most likely to suffer with gout. Foods with a high purine content include shellfish, liver, red meat, peas, creamy sauces and anchovies. Others at a greater risk for gout than the general population are obese individuals, those with high blood pressure, persons with kidney disease, diabetics and post-menopausal women.

Causes

Gout occurs when there is an excess of uric acid production or when the kidneys become unable to rid the body of uric acid. What causes the excess production is unknown. Damage to or disease of the kidneys can result in the organ's diminished ability to handle uric acid production. It generally takes years of this build up before an individual experiences gout symptoms. The symptoms typically occur without prior warning.

Tests and Treatment

Physicians regularly perform certain tests before diagnosing gout. Among these are x-rays of the joint, fluid analysis and blood and urine tests to detect excess uric acid. Medication is generally prescribed to aid in reducing any buildup. The most common drug employed to fight gout is Allopurinol. Two other drugs, Probenecid and Sulfinpyrazone, are also frequently given. Those with gout are often advised to exercise, lose weight and decrease their consumption of purine containing foods as part of treatment. They may also be encouraged to eat foods that naturally help lower uric acid levels such as blueberries, leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, potatoes and oranges.

References

* Mayo Clinic
* Gout.com
* Podiatry Channel