Gout

What is gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals build up inside a joint. These crystals form when your blood contains high uric acid levels, a substance your body produces when breaking down purines, a chemical compound in certain foods and drinks. 

Uric acid typically dissolves in the blood and is filtered out by the kidneys. But if the body produces too much, it can build up in the joints and cause problems. 

What are the symptoms of gout?

Gout symptoms include:

• Intense joint pain
• Joint discomfort that lasts days or weeks
• Inflammation and redness
• Limited range of motion

Gout can occur in any joint but commonly affects the big toe joint. If your big toe is red, swollen, and painful to touch, contact Alpine Foot and Ankle immediately.

How is gout diagnosed?

Dr. McCall reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including where the pain is located, what it feels like, and if it’s worse at certain times, like when you wake up in the morning. Tell Dr. McCall if you have diabetes or another chronic medical condition, as they can increase your risk of gout.

Next, Dr. McCall completes a physical exam. He looks at your feet and toes for redness and swelling, assesses your big toe’s range of motion, and observes your gait (how you walk). 

Dr. McCall also orders several tests, including blood work and joint fluid analysis. Blood work lets him measure the amount of uric acid in your blood, while joint fluid analysis allows him to check for uric acid crystals. If there’s still a question about whether you have gout, Dr. McCall orders a series of X-rays to check for joint and bone damage.

How is gout treated?

At Alpine Foot and Ankle, Dr. McCall treats gout using a conservative, minimally invasive approach. He might suggest:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Colchicine (an anti-inflammatory drug that relieves gout pain)
• Corticosteroid injections
• Medications that block uric acid production
• Medications that improve uric acid removal

Most people with gout benefit from several treatments. Dr. McCall monitors your symptoms at regular checkups, adjusting your care plan as needed to ensure a positive outcome.

Call the nearest Alpine Foot and Ankle office today to schedule a gout consultation, or book your appointment online.