Gout is a condition that presents most often in the big toe but can affect other joints. It is responsible for sudden severe joint pain.
Understanding Gout
What causes it? Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a surplus of this uric acid. When there is an excess of uric acid, needle-shaped urate crystals begin to form in joints and surrounding tissues, causing inflammation and pain.
Symptoms of gout are often sudden and frequent, especially in the middle of the night. It is most commonly developed in the big toe but can occur in most joints. Significant pain and tenderness is experienced and the joint itself may appear swollen and red.
How Orthopedic Treatment Can Help Treat Gout
If you suspect that you may be suffering from gout, you should contact our Atlanta orthopedic doctors immediately, so we can diagnose and provide treatment to avoid long-lasting joint damage. Our orthopedic doctors can diagnose this condition by examining your joint and performing some tests.
One of the examins that may be administered is a joint fluid test to determine if there are urate crystals present in your joint fluid. Our orthopedic doctors use a needle to draw out some joint fluid for review. Blood tests to determine the amount of uric acid content in your blood may also be performed.
Our orthopedic doctors will treat your gout with medications to help reduce pain and inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, colchicine, or steroids will be prescribed. These medications help to decrease the amount of uric acid production within your body and assist your body in eliminating any you may have.
Limiting foods that contain purine-like red meat, and avoiding alcohol consumption will also help reduce your gout symptoms. Increasing water intake will also aid your kidneys in eliminating uric acid from your body. Call us at (404) 855-2141 to get an appointment to address your gout symptoms.
