Gout In Saginaw, MI
Gout or gouty arthritis is a complex form of arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid. As a result, an individual with gout experiences intense pain, especially in the smaller joints such as the toes. A gout attack usually occurs suddenly and often in the middle of the night—most people with gout experience severe pain in the big toe. In addition, the affected toe typically feels warm to the touch, swollen, and incredibly tender.
Acute gout symptoms may come and go within 3 to 10 days. In the case of chronic gout, symptoms may come and go periodically, separated by periods of remission. If you’re experiencing gout symptoms, you should seek prompt treatment to prevent it from turning chronic.
Chronic gout can cause permanent joint damage and deformity. If you’d like to receive treatment for gout in Saginaw, MI, please reach out to MI Health Clinic today.
Gout Causes and Risk Factors
Uric acid is a relatively harmless waste product resulting from the breakdown of purines in your body. Purines are chemicals that occur naturally in the body and in particular foods, including red meat, seafood, and beans. Uric acid is expelled from the body in the form of urine and sweat.
Metabolism disorders, dehydration, kidney and thyroid problems can lead to elevated levels of uric acid. When this happens, the uric acid may be retained in the body in the form of uric acid crystals that accumulate in your joints. This is what is known as gout.
Risk factors for gout include being middle-aged or post-menopausal, excessive alcohol intake, family history of gout, and indulging in particular foods. In addition, having certain chronic conditions such as sleep apnea, kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid disease can also make you susceptible to gout.
Seeking Treatment for Gout
Our doctors in Saginaw, MI, will review your medical history, family history, and symptoms to diagnose gout. The doctors may also perform tests to check for uric acid build-up in your joints. We also obtain x-rays of the joint to gather in-depth insights.
The measures prescribed in the treatment of gout depend on the stage and severity of the disease. Medications prescribed for the treatment of gout work in two ways—they can either relieve gout symptoms or prevent the build-up of uric acid, thus lowering the chances of flares.
Along with appropriate medications, our doctors near you may also recommend lifestyle changes such as lowering your alcohol intake, cutting down excess weight, and quitting smoking.
Contact MI Health Clinic today to enjoy personalized treatment for gout in Saginaw, MI.