A gout attack is a very painful experience that often strikes suddenly and often in the large joint of your big toe. Gout may also occur in the ankles, wrists, and hands. A gout attack is caused by uric acid crystallizing out of the blood and into the joints. The sharp crystals cause extreme pain and an attack can occur not long after consuming the wrong foods or beverages.
Since gout is caused by an increase of uric acid circulating in your blood, avoiding foods that increase this acid production will help to avoid an attack.
Risk factors for a sudden gout attack include the following:
- Alcoholic beverages—that are grain-based, and beer in particular, are known to increase uric acid levels in the blood. Tequila is made from the agave plant and doesn’t have as much of an influence on uric acid build up.
- Rich foods that are high in purines—including organ meats, lobster, clams, shrimp and fatty meats all contribute to an increase in uric acid in your system.
You can eliminate much of this risk by avoiding the foods and beverages listed above and by consuming a healthy diet rich in fruits and veggies. Switching to low-fat dairy products will also help. Cherries and organic apple cider vinegar can help to cleanse the blood of uric acid.
Although a gout attack will almost always subside after a day or two, repeated attacks can cause permanent damage to the joints. A medicine called allopurinol can be used for those who suffer from repeated gout attacks.
At Podiatry Center of New Jersey, Dr. Russell Samofal treats a variety of conditions such as sports injuries, diabetic foot problems, pediatric foot conditions, toe deformities, arthritis, nail fungus, arch problems and heel pain. Equipped with advanced technologies and a dedicated staff, Podiatry Center of New Jersey provides individualized high-quality care for patients all across Morris, Passaic, Bergen and Essex counties. For all your foot and ankle problems, contact our Wayne office at (973) 925-4111 for an appointment.
