More than 9 million Americans have gout, a type of arthritis characterized by intense pain in the big toe. At Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates, the experienced providers specialize in diagnosing and treating gout. Make an appointment today by calling the office on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in New York City, or click the online booking feature.
What is gout?
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. It occurs when your body produces more uric acid than normal.
Extra uric acid causes microscopic crystals to form inside your body. These crystals develop inside your big toe or other joints, affecting your mobility and quality of life.
What are the symptoms of gout?
The symptoms of gout include:
- Intense pain
- Redness
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Warmth
The side effects of gout are worse during “gout attacks.” Attacks typically last a week or two. Your symptoms might subside completely in between flare-ups.
Who is at risk of gout?
Anyone can experience gout but several factors may increase your risk, including:
- Obesity
- Congestive heart failure
- Diabetes
- Family history of gout
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
Lifestyle factors may also increase your risk. For example, you’re more likely to develop gout if you eat lots of red meat or regularly drink alcohol.
How is gout diagnosed?
To diagnose gout, your Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when they happen, how often, and if certain activities, like drinking alcohol make them worse.
Next, your provider completes a physical exam, looking at your affected joint (or joints) for redness, swelling, and warmth. They also order blood work, to measure the level of uric acid in your body and take X-rays, an ultrasound, or an MRI to check for bone, joint, or soft tissue damage.
How is gout treated?
Treatment of gout depends on various things, including your age, health history, and the severity of your symptoms. Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates might recommend:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Colchicine, a medication that reduces the severity of gout attacks
- Corticosteroid injections, to relieve pain and swelling
- Medication to reduce uric acid production
The goal is to ease your symptoms, restore your mobility, and improve your quality of life.
Is there any way to prevent gout?
You can significantly reduce your risk of gout by living a healthy lifestyle. Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates recommends eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and drinking alcohol in moderation.
Make an appointment at Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates today to learn more about gout treatment. Call the office or click the online booking feature.