One of the different health problems that can affect anyone that is gout. Although many people don't realize it, it is actually a form of arthritis that can result in a sudden and severe attack of swelling, pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. Any joint in the body can be affected by gout but it is more likely to affect the joint at the base of the big toe where it attaches to the foot. In some cases, this problem can come on in the middle of the night and wake you up with the sensation that the big toe is burning on fire.

The sensation of heat is only one of the different symptoms associated with this condition. It is not only producing the sensation of heat, but the joint is also hot to the touch and may be tender and swollen to the point where even the sheet on the bed may seem as if it is too much to tolerate. Most people who experience this problem are not able to wear socks or shoes and even the thought of having something touch the joint can cause very painful symptoms to occur. Those symptoms may come and go and it may be possible to manage the symptoms and prevent flare-ups in some cases.

As was discussed, the intense joint pain is one of the most common symptoms associated with this condition. You may also experience inflammation, redness, a limited range of movement and discomfort. If you have a sudden and intense pain that occurs in the joint it is best to speak to your physician as soon as possible. The pain may get worse and joint damage may occur if it is not treated.

Even though there is not a cure for gout, it can be effectively controlled with medication and lifestyle changes. It occurs when urate crystals form under the joint and lead to pain and inflammation. Those crystals are the same that cause kidney stones. Uric acid is naturally produced in the body but too much uric acid in your diet, when you eat food such as organ meats, seafood and steak can result in higher levels. You are at more of a risk if you eat such a diet, are obese, have a family history, or are taking certain medications.

If you experience a problem with gout, you can visit Dr. Lavery for a checkup and get what is necessary to get beyond the problem. In many cases, it is not a permanent condition and it will come and go but medication can help you tolerate the condition until it subsides. Dr. Lavery can also provide you with information on how you can avoid a flare-up from occurring in the future.

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