Experiencing sudden joint pain, swelling, and redness in your big toe? It could be gout, a condition where urate crystals accumulate in the joints. To determine whether you have gout, a podiatrist may recommend various tests. Blood tests are essential to check uric acid levels, although elevated levels don't always signify gout. Joint fluid testing, or arthrocentesis, involves extracting fluid from the affected joint to identify uric acid crystals, confirming a gout diagnosis. Ultrasound imaging can reveal inflammation and the presence of crystals, or tophi, around the joint. Additionally, dual-energy computerized tomography, or DECT, scans provide detailed images to show uric acid crystals within the joints, aiding in diagnosis. If you're experiencing severe and persistent discomfort in the big toe joint, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This foot doctor is medically trained to diagnose symptoms of gout and offer the appropriate options to manage this condition. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM from Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Plano, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.