Gout Treatment and Management
Gout treatment services in The Woodlands | Conroe | Spring | North Houston
What is Gout?
Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone. It is characterized by sudden, intense attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, most often in the big toe. If left untreated, gout can lead to severe joint damage and complications such as recurrent gout or kidney stones.
If you think you have Gout symptoms or are experiencing pain call our foot doctor in The Woodlands at 936-273-6000 or schedule your appointment online.
Common Symptoms of Gout:
Sudden, severe pain in the big toe or other joints
Swelling, redness, and warmth around the affected joint
Difficulty moving the affected joint
Intense pain within the first 4 to 12 hours of an attack
Lingering discomfort for days or weeks after the acute pain subsides
Gout Risk Factors:
Gout is caused by the accumulation of urate crystals in your joints due to high uric acid levels in the blood. Several factors can contribute to increased uric acid levels, including:
Diet: Foods high in purines (e.g., red meat, shellfish) increase uric acid levels.
Obesity: Excess weight can lead to higher levels of uric acid in the body.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and kidney disease increase your risk of gout.
Medications: Some medications, like diuretics, can raise uric acid levels.
Family History: A family history of gout can increase your risk of developing the condition.
Age & Gender: Men are more likely to develop gout, although the risk for women increases after menopause.
Recent Surgery: Surgery can trigger a gout attack due to dehydration or other factors.
Complications of Untreated Gout:
If gout is not properly managed, it can lead to more severe conditions, including:
Recurrent Gout Attacks: Multiple gout attacks per year that affect more joints.
Advanced Gout: Chronic gout may result in joint damage and the inability to move the affected joint normally.
Kidney Stones: High uric acid levels can also lead to the formation of uric acid kidney stones.
When to Seek Medical Help for Gout:
If you experience sudden, intense pain in a joint, particularly the big toe, seek medical attention immediately. Gout that goes untreated can worsen and lead to joint damage and other serious complications. If you experience fever, or if a joint becomes hot and inflamed, it could be a sign of an infection, and you should contact a doctor immediately.
Treatment for Gout:
At Doctor's Inc., we offer effective treatments for gout to help alleviate pain, prevent future attacks, and manage symptoms. Our approach includes:
Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and colchicine to manage pain and inflammation during a gout attack.
Lifestyle Changes: We provide guidance on dietary changes, weight management, and exercise to reduce the risk of future gout attacks.
Custom Gout Management Plans: Tailored treatments to lower uric acid levels and prevent recurrent gout attacks.
Preventing Future Gout Attacks:
To prevent future attacks, lifestyle adjustments such as managing weight, limiting alcohol intake, and avoiding purine-rich foods are important. Additionally, medications to lower uric acid levels may be prescribed for long-term gout management.
Why Choose Doctor's Inc. for Gout Treatment in The Woodlands, Conroe, Spring, and North Houston?
Expert Care for Gout: Our experienced podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating gout and related conditions.
Comprehensive Gout Solutions: We provide both immediate and long-term care, including pain management and preventive strategies.
Convenient Locations: Serving The Woodlands, Conroe, Spring, and North Houston, we offer convenient access to specialized gout care.
If you're experiencing gout symptoms or need expert advice on managing your gout, contact Doctor's Inc. today at 936-273-6000 to schedule an appointment and start your path to pain relief and improved joint health.