Gout is a complex form of arthritis that occurs when your body is not properly removing uric acid from your blood. This causes extreme pain in the joints of the foot. A person can develop an acute attack of gout and find even a thin sheet draped across their toe can cause pain. Symptoms of gout include: pain, redness, swelling and fever in the joint of the foot. If you have gout, it is important you see a Foot Specialist as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for gout that can help to stop the progression and pain.
There are several medication interventions your foot doctor can give you to help stop acute attacks of gout and prevent new flare-ups.
1. NSAIDs are nonsterioid anti-inflammatory drugs, like Ibuprofen and Naproxen. These drugs can be given in prescription strength so a higher level of pain relief can be reached during an acute attack. Many foot doctors recommend their gout patients stay on a low dose of NSAIDs after an acute attack to prevent a reocurrence.
2. Corticosterioids can help to reduce the inflammation in your joints and relieve your pain. These are given by mouth or through injection directly into the joints. This type of treatment is typically given when the pain is severe or is not relieved by NSAID treatment. It can also be given to patients who are unable to take NSAIDs.
3. Your Foot Specialist can also prescribe medications that help to block uric acid from forming. These drugs help to reduce the amount of uric acid your body makes so it is less likely to build up in your joints.
4. There is also a drug that can be used to assist your body in properly removing uric acid. Probenecid helps your kidneys to remove uric acid more efficiently so you are not in danger of developing new attacks of gout.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of gout, contact the Foot & Ankle Specialists of NJ. They will examine you and find the right treatment combination to help you find relief from your pain and help to prevent further attacks from occurring.
