Risk Factors for Gout

bunions7.jpgGout is a foot condition that involves the accumulation of too much uric acid in the body. It is a very common and painful form of arthritis that typically plagues men more than women. Aside from being male, risk factors for gout can include being overweight, drinking excess alcohol, a diet of foods that contain purines, and taking medication such as niacin, diuretics, cyclosporine, aspirin or levodopa. Gout maintenance revolves primarily around maintaining low uric acid levels. Depending on the suggestions of your doctor, this can involve decreasing the intake of foods that have purines, taking NSAIDS or corticosteroids, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy body weight.     

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with Dr. Jeffrey Conforti of New Jersey. Dr. Conforti will assist you with all of 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 contact one of our offices located in Paramus and Clifton, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Foot & Ankle Medical & Surgical Care
Paramus, NJ Location
2 Sears Drive
Paramus, NJ 07652
Affiliated With
Hackensack University Medical Center
The Valley Hospital
Board Certified, American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgery
Board Certified, American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics