What is Gout?

GOUT

Gout occurs when a joint becomes red, hot, swollen, and very painful. It often affects the big toe joint but can affect any joint in the foot or ankle. Increased amounts of uric acid (a waste product in the body) can bring on an attack of gout.

Risk Factors
Men are more likely to get gout than women. However, after menopause, the risk of developing gout increases for women.

People on diuretics or water pills are at increased risk for developing gout.

People that drink a lot of alcohol can develop gout.

Certain foods can trigger an attack of gout.
Red meat, organ meat, shrimp and other shellfish, turkey
Cheese
Green leafy vegetables like spinach, turnip greens, mustard greens

Diagnosis and Treatment
Gout can often be diagnosed based on your symptoms, history, x-rays, and blood work (can reveal an increase in uric acid during an attack). Treatments include the following: medication, injections, rest, surgical shoes or cam walker boots, and strapping of the foot and ankle. Some people need to take daily medication if they get recurrent gout attacks. The best way to prevent gout is to limit intake of excess alcohol and foods that cause gout.
Information prepared by Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580(Oak Park) and 773-776-3166 (Chicago).