Gouty Arthritis Symptoms
Gouty arthritis is the most common inflammatory form of joint illness, with over 150 different kinds. Gout affects 4% of the adult population in the United States, with men over 60 being the most affected. This figure has risen significantly in recent decades, indicating that more people are having gout.
To assist you in identifying gout, the podiatry staff at Neuhaus Foot and Ankle has compiled a list of the top five symptoms to look out for – the sooner you notice these symptoms, the sooner we can intervene.
1. A Different Kind Of Pain
Pain is the most common sign of gout, and it’s also the most difficult to ignore. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, a condition known as hyperuricemia. As a result, the excess uric acid in your joints might create painful crystals in the tissues. The pain is frequently characterized as stabbing, as if needles or blades were inserted into your joint.
While the inside of your joint is painful enough, the exterior can become exceedingly reactive, making even a simple brush with a bedsheet agonizing.
Gout pain is also known for developing quickly, with the severe pain usually occurring within 24 hours.
2. The Location Is Important
Gout affects men’s major joints in their lower extremities, most commonly the big toes. In fact, the big toe joints account for over half of all first-time gout attacks.
Women, on the other hand, are more likely than males to get gout in their knees, as well as gout in their upper extremities.
3. Flare-Ups at Night
Gout flare-ups are more common at night. Gout flares up at night for a variety of reasons, including:
Reduced body temperature stimulates the production of crystals.
Reduced amounts of cortisone, the hormone that controls inflammation.
More carbon dioxide in your system, which promotes the creation of crystals.
That isn’t to suggest that gout can’t flare up during the day; nevertheless, nocturnal flare-ups are a good indicator that you have this type of arthritis.
Inflammation (#4)
Another indicator that gout is present is inflammation and swelling in the affected joints.
Changes in your skin are number five.
Changes in your skin, such as redness and heat, are the ultimate unmistakable indicators of gouty arthritis. It’s also possible that your skin is stretching across the joint.
Gout Treatment
If you recognize any of the above symptoms, we encourage you to make an appointment with our team so that we can provide relief and make recommendations to help you avoid another gout flare-up.
While there is no cure for gout, making a few dietary and lifestyle adjustments can help you avoid it. When you consume foods or beverages high in purine, such as some meats, fatty fish, and alcohol, your body creates uric acid. You might be able to avoid a gout flare-up in the future if you cut out on these foods.