Recognize 6 Signs of Gout in the Feet, Skin Color Changes to Disturbing Swelling

Kapanlagi.com - Gout, or what we commonly refer to as gout, is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid in the blood. Interestingly, according to data from WHO, this condition more frequently affects men, especially those over 30 years of age. When uric acid levels rise, sharp crystals can form in the joints, which can trigger pain that significantly disrupts our daily activities.

Often, the symptoms of gout are misinterpreted as rheumatism. However, gout has distinctive signs that appear in several parts of the feet, particularly in the big toe, ankle, and knee. Therefore, recognizing the symptoms of gout early is crucial for timely and appropriate treatment.

By knowing the characteristics of gout in the feet, sufferers can more easily manage pain and prevent symptoms from worsening. Let's take a look at the symptoms to watch for and the preventive measures we can take to maintain our joint health, as compiled by Kapanlagi.com from various sources, Monday (4/11). We must not get trapped in avoidable pain!

1. Joint Pain in the Big Toe, Ankle, and Knee

The most common symptom of gout is sharp pain that attacks the joints of the feet, especially in the big toe, ankle, and knee. This pain is often described as stabbing or tingling, and can become very severe, especially at night or in the morning when just waking up.

As a result, sufferers may find it difficult to engage in activities, even just to step. In some cases, this pain can last from several days to weeks before subsiding, but it can return at any time if uric acid levels are not managed properly.

2. Swelling and Redness in the Joint Area

In addition to painful pain, swelling often serves as a key signal of gout in the feet. Due to the buildup of sharp crystals that irritate the joints, the affected area will swell and turn red, creating a striking appearance.

Often, this swelling is also accompanied by small lumps known as tophi, which are often misunderstood as symptoms of rheumatism. According to rheumatology specialists, this swelling usually affects the larger joints in the feet, from the knees to the toes, making it important to recognize these signs well.

3. Skin Becomes Red and Feels Warm

When gout strikes, the skin around the affected joint often shows striking changes, ranging from noticeable redness to purplish hues. Not only that, the area also feels warm, stiff, and appears stretched, all due to inflammation caused by crystals irritating the joint tissues.

These changes are certainly very disturbing and should not be ignored. Once these symptoms appear, the first recommended step is to compress the affected area with cold water to reduce inflammation and provide some comfort.

4. Limited Range of Motion

Swelling and pain in the joints can be a nightmare for sufferers, making every step feel like a major challenge. For some, this condition severely limits movement, making walking or even standing a difficult feat.

When gout strikes, rest is key, and heavy activities should be avoided. These sudden symptoms can often be deceptive, causing the body to adapt to the pain that comes and goes, as if giving false hope that healing has arrived.

5. The Appearance of Hard Bumps (Tofus)

In the realm of health, there is an astonishing phenomenon that can arise from improper management of uric acid: hard bumps known as tophi. Although tophi usually have a rough surface and do not cause pain unless pressed or rubbed, their presence can still disrupt our comfort.

Experts explain that tophi form from uric acid crystals that accumulate over time, and while they can appear in various parts of the body, the toes and ankles are the most common locations for these bumps.

6. Fever and Chills

In certain situations, uric acid can cause symptoms of fever and chills that can be bothersome. This occurs because the body reacts to severe inflammation in the joints.

If you experience these symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a doctor immediately, as infections can worsen existing uric acid conditions. Additionally, fever that weakens the immune system can also hinder the body's healing process in combating the inflammation that occurs.

7. How to Prevent Gout from Recurring

To combat gout, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the key. Avoid high-purine foods such as red meat, organ meats, and tempting seafood, and don't forget the importance of exercising regularly.

Also, make sure to drink enough water and have your uric acid levels checked regularly, so you can stay fit and avoid unwanted relapses.

(kpl/rmt)