Gout

Gout is a condition that affects the big toe joint, but it can also affect the ankles, heels, knees, wrists, fingers and elbows. It is one of the most common forms of arthritis (inflammation of the joint), it can occur suddenly and be very painful. There will be severe swelling and the skin over the joint may be red and shiny. This is caused by an increase in the levels of uric acid in the blood that crystallise and settle in various joints in the body, predominately the big toe. It is difficult to diagnose gout, as the symptoms can be similar to a joint infection.

Gout has been found to occur when levels of purine in the diet have become increased. Foods that contain this are: red meat, shell fish and red wine.
 
Treatment & Prevention
 
If you are prone to gout then you should consider avoiding rich foods like red meat, shell fish and red wine as it can cause or aggravate gout in some people. Avoid taking diuretics as they can increase levels of uric acid, but if you drink cranberry juice it could help reduce the acid.

You are advised against any sudden weight loss, but being overweight increases the risk of gout.

If you apply an ice pack or cooling lotion it could help to lessen the pain, also gel pads can be useful to protect the bunion area.

It is important that you consult your doctor so that he can treat this condition and prevent any long term change in the joint. Treatment usually helps to prevent disability due to gout and anti-inflammatory drugs are the most commonly prescribed, to be taken orally or injected into the affected joint. Acute gout is best treated when the symptoms first occur.