In the season finale of HBO television series Game of Thrones, Doran Martell is in a wheelchair for what author George R.R. Martin states is a severe case of gout. While having gout present day will most likely not require a wheelchair, nearly four percent of Americans have gout and nearly 20 percent of gout sufferers have high uric acid in the blood. Having a diet full of beer, excessive high fructose corn syrup, organ meats and completely lacking in water, dairy, or vitamin C can be a huge factor in gout. Although Doran Martell is wheelchair ridden, gout is most likely to occur in the big toe or ankle, where body temperature is the coolest.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with one of our podiatrists from University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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