Gout treatment and prevention with our Board-Certified Rheumatologist
As we age, we may experience a range of medical conditions that can affect our overall health and wellness. This includes conditions such as gout. Our Board-Certified Rheumatologist, Dr. Peter Lloyd, at Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center of Encinitas, California, is here to educate you on the symptoms, prevention, and treatment of gout and other situations where care from a skilled rheumatologist may be in order!
What is gout?
Gout is a unique condition that can become highly problematic for patients. This particular condition occurs when there is an excessive amount of uric acid in the body. This results in the development of crystals which form in the joints of the body. With this formation, patients will notice severe inflammation and pain in many joints within the body, including the ankles, toes, wrists, knees, and elbows.
What are the different types of gout?
Gout is considered a type of arthritis and can be classified by our rheumatologist into two types: primary gout and secondary gout. Primary gout is often caused by a build-up of uric acid in the body, while other medical conditions or medications can cause secondary gout.
What are the symptoms of gout?
The primary symptoms that bring patients into Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center for a diagnosis include severe pain and inflammation in the joints. This pain may come on suddenly and may be accompanied by redness, warmth, and swelling in the affected area. Some of our patients with gout may also experience fever, chills, and a general feeling of illness.
How can I prevent gout?
Prevention of gout starts by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes:
- Following a well-balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
- Staying hydrated
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Avoiding foods high in purines, like red meat, seafood, and organ meats
- Maintaining the proper and healthy weight for your height and frame
What are the treatment options for gout?
Seeking treatment for gout will assist in ensuring patients do not experience a negative effect on their daily quality of life. Some treatment options may include:
- Medications to address pain and inflammation, such as nonsteroid anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroids
- Lifestyle changes to prevent flare-ups, including following a healthy diet and managing weight
- Managing underlying medical problems that may contribute to gout, such as high blood pressure or diabetes
- Draining excess fluid from the affected joint to relieve pain and inflammation
- Surgical intervention to remove uric acid crystals from the joint or repair damaged cartilage
Request time to speak to our team at Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center today!
Dr. Peter Lloyd is a Board-Certified Rheumatologist in the Encinitas, California area who is available to help patients with a wide range of health concerns. If you suspect you have gout or want to learn more about prevention, we welcome you to our office, conveniently located at 477 North El Camino Real, Suite D304.
Talk to our friendly front desk team by calling 760-509-2429 and scheduling a time to discuss your needs.
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