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Gout Specialist

Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC

Podiatry located in Mesquite, TX, Rockwall, TX, Wylie, TX, Forney, TX & Kaufman, TX

It’s estimated that more than 4 million Americans suffer from gout, a type of inflammatory arthritis that causes pain and swelling, particularly in the toes and feet. There’s no cure for gout, but with proper care, you can manage your symptoms. At Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC, with locations in Mesquite, Rockwall, Wylie, Forney, and Kaufman, Texas, the team specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gout. If you’re suffering from gout-related foot pain, make an appointment by calling the office nearest you or by clicking the online booking tool today.

Gout Q & A

What is gout?

Gout is a complex form of arthritis that affects people of all ages and genders. It’s characterized by sudden attacks of severe pain, swelling, and redness that affect your joints, particularly those in your feet and toes. 

Gout attacks usually occur suddenly and without any warning. For example, you might experience a gout attack in the middle of the night, causing you to wake up from a sound sleep. 

Symptoms associated with gout attacks include swelling, heat, and pain that affects the joint at the base of your big toe. 


What are the symptoms of gout?

The symptoms of gout vary from person to person, but they almost always occur suddenly and during the night. Telltale signs of gout include: 

  • Intense joint pain
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Lingering discomfort


As gout gets worse, you might also experience trouble wiggling your affected toes or placing weight on your affected foot. 


When should I see a doctor about gout?

Mild joint pain usually subsides on its own with rest and conservative measures of care such as ice and light exercise. However, if your pain persists or gets worse, it’s important to make an appointment with the team at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists. 

Left untreated, gout can lead to joint damage and worsening pain. If you develop a fever or experience joint pain associated with heat or redness, contact a podiatrist right away. 


Who is at risk of developing gout?

Gout affects people of all ages and genders, but there are certain factors that may increase your risk, including:

  • Being a man
  • Eating a diet that contains lots of meat
  • Drinking alcohol regularly, particularly beer
  • Taking certain prescription medications


You’re also more likely to develop gout if you have a history of foot and ankle injuries or if you have a family history of gout. For example, if your parents or grandparents had gout, you’re more likely to develop it as well. 


How do you treat gout?

At Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, the team uses conservative, noninvasive treatments to address gout whenever possible. Following an exam and review of your symptoms, your doctor might recommend taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or colchicine to relieve pain. 

If your symptoms persist, your doctor might recommend corticosteroid shots. In extreme cases, you might benefit from medications that block uric acid production. 

Don’t let gout prevent you from living an active and enjoyable life. Make an appointment at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC by calling the office nearest you or by clicking the online booking tool.