Gout Specialist
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Kimberly Bolling, MD
Internist located in Bowie, MD
Do you have pain or swelling in your feet that repeatedly flares up? If you do, you may have a type of arthritis called gout. Highly experienced internist Dr. Kimberly L. Bolling offers effective gout treatments at her self-titled practice in Bowie, Maryland. If you want to stop suffering from gout, book an appointment online or over the phone today.
Gout Q & A
What is gout?
When there’s too much uric acid in your bloodstream, it can collect and crystalize in your joints. These needle-like crystals can then cause serious pain and swelling The resulting condition is called gout. Men and women usually get gout in the largest joint of their big toe, although any joint can get it.
About two-thirds of the uric acid in your body is natural. The other third comes from your diet, often after purines are converted. Purines are substances in certain animal and plant products, such as bacon, liver, peas, and beans. When you consume them, your body turns them into uric acid. One way to combat gout is to cut out these foods.
What are the symptoms of gout?
If you have gout, you may notice several symptoms, including:
- Warmth around the joint
- Swelling around the joint
- Red skin above the affected joint
- Joint stiffness
- Pain when moving your toe or other affected joint
It's common to have several or even all of these symptoms at one time. Gout symptoms aren't usually constant. They normally flare up. Gout flare-ups typically happen when your body is the coolest or when you're at rest, often at night.
How long do gout flare-ups last?
Gout flare-ups can last from a week to 12 days, and it may take months or even years before you have another flare-up.
Am I at risk for developing gout?
You have an increased chance of getting gout if you fall into any of the following groups:
- Male
- A family history of gout
- Overweight or obese
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Consumption of foods high in purines
If you recognize any of these risk factors, take steps to manage them with the help of Dr. Bolling.
What is the treatment for gout?
Dr. Bolling can treat gout in a number of ways, but adhering to changes in lifestyle choices may be crucial. Some of the most effective gout remedies include:
- Drinking more water
- Drinking less alcohol
- Avoiding shoes that put pressure on your big toe
Dr. Bolling will customize your gout treatment based on your symptoms.
If gout is holding you back, put your foot down. Book an appointment with Dr. Kimberly L. Bolling online or over the phone today.
