Podiatry services focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and related leg structures. Podiatrists are doctors who manage a range of issues, from common problems to more complex disorders, and they focus on maintaining mobility. One foot condition that often requires specialized care is gout, a painful form of inflammatory arthritis. Here’s information on gout and how it is treated:
Over-the-counter Medications
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints. It frequently develops at the base of the big toe joint. An attack can occur unexpectedly, and the joint may feel hot, swollen, and extremely sensitive to touch. While the big toe is mostly affected, gout can also affect other joints in the body.
Why Does Gout Develop?
Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in a joint, causing inflammation and intense pain. These crystals form when there are high levels of uric acid in the blood, a condition known as hyperuricemia. Uric acid is a waste product created when the body breaks down purines. These are substances found naturally in the body and in certain foods, like:
- Red Meat
- Organ Meats
- Certain Seafood
Genetic risk factors are out of your control, but lifestyle adjustments can help reduce your risk of developing gout. Some adjustments to make include maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and staying hydrated. Dietary changes, such as reducing intake of purine-rich foods, may also help lower high levels.
How Do NSAIDs Treat Gout?
For many individuals experiencing a gout attack, initial relief may be found with non-prescription options available at most pharmacies. These medications can help manage the immediate pain and inflammation associated with a flare-up. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a common treatment for acute gout attacks. Options such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium are available over the counter and can help alleviate both pain and inflammation. These medications work by blocking enzymes that cause inflammation in the body, so they can provide effective short-term relief.
Prescription Medications
If over-the-counter options do not provide sufficient relief, a doctor may recommend prescription-strength medications. These fall into two main categories:
- Prescriptions That Treat Acute Attacks
- Prescriptions That Prevent Future Flares
For immediate pain relief, a physician might prescribe more potent NSAIDs or a medication called colchicine. Colchicine is an older drug that is effective at reducing gout pain, but it must be used under medical supervision. For long-term management, medications that lower uric acid are often necessary. Some drugs help the kidneys remove uric acid more efficiently, while others block its production in the body.
Corticosteroid Pills or Injections
For individuals who cannot take NSAIDs or colchicine, corticosteroids may be an appropriate alternative. These medications can be administered in pill form or as an injection directly into the affected joint. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that can quickly control the inflammation and pain associated with a gout attack, and they offer a valuable treatment option for many. A healthcare provider can determine whether this course of action is appropriate based on an individual’s medical history and symptom severity.
Treat Gout With a Specialist
Gout is a complex condition that requires consistent management to prevent joint damage and recurrent attacks. Various medications may relieve symptoms, but a medical specialist can provide a comprehensive treatment plan for your needs. To learn about your options, contact a podiatrist today to schedule a consultation.
