Gout Treatment in Los Angeles

What is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the body’s inability to properly metabolize certain proteins. This leads to an excess buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, a condition known as hyperuricemia. This condition causes uric acid crystals to form in the joints, triggering severe pain and inflammation. The prevalence of gout has risen significantly in the U.S., affecting approximately 8.3 million people.If you're experiencing recurring joint pain and swelling, Dr. David J. Soomekh, a leading foot and ankle specialist in Los Angeles, offers expert diagnosis and treatment to help you find relief.

Who is at Risk for Gout?

Certain individuals are more prone to developing gout, including:

• Men, especially African-American men, are more likely to develop gout than women.
• The likelihood of gout increases with age, peaking around 75 years old.
• Women typically experience their first gout attack after menopause.
• A family history of gout increases the risk by 20%.
• Around 21% of people in the U.S. have elevated uric acid levels, though not all will develop gout.
• Even those with normal uric acid levels can experience gout attacks.

Common Risk Factors for Gout

Several lifestyle and health factors contribute to the development of gout, including:

• Obesity or excessive weight gain, especially in younger years
• Moderate to heavy alcohol consumption
• High blood pressure
• Poor kidney function
• Certain medications and medical conditions that raise uric acid levels
• Diets rich in protein and fatty foods, such as red meat and seafood

Signs and Symptoms of Gout

A gout attack is characterized by sudden, intense joint pain, followed by redness, swelling, and tenderness. The big toe joint is the most commonly affected area, but gout can also impact the ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows. Symptoms may include:

• Rapid onset of severe joint pain
• Extreme sensitivity, with even slight contact causing discomfort
• Warmth and visible swelling in the affected joint
• Recurring attacks, which can lead to chronic arthritis in the big toe or ankle

Without treatment, gout attacks can become more frequent and lead to long-term joint damage.

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What Causes Gout?

Gout occurs when uric acid accumulates in the bloodstream and crystallizes in the joints. Uric acid is a byproduct of purine breakdown, a substance found in many foods. Normally, the kidneys filter out excess uric acid through urine. However, when the body produces too much or fails to eliminate enough, uric acid can settle in cooler areas of the body, such as the joints.

The immune system reacts to these crystals as foreign invaders, triggering a strong inflammatory response that causes intense pain and swelling. This reaction is similar to trying to dissolve too much sugar in cold water: Excess particles settle at the bottom, leading to an accumulation in one area.

How is Gout Diagnosed?

Dr. Soomekh performs a thorough evaluation to diagnose gout, including:

• Clinical Examination: A detailed discussion of symptoms, joint pain history, and family medical background
• Digital X-rays: High-resolution imaging to assess joint damage
• Specialized CT Scan: Advanced imaging to evaluate joint health in 3D
• Joint Fluid Analysis: A minimally invasive procedure using local anesthesia to extract and analyze joint fluid for uric acid crystals
• Blood Tests: Measuring uric acid levels to confirm hyperuricemia

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Treatment Options for Gout

Our expert gout treatment in Los Angeles at our state-of-the-art Beverly Hills facility focuses on three key areas:

1. Managing pain and inflammation during an attack
2. Preventing future gout episodes
3. Addressing long-term joint damage

Treatment During a Gout Attack

• Anti-inflammatory medications (Indomethacin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
• Colchicine to reduce inflammation
• Rest and immobilization with a walking boot
• Corticosteroid injections for severe joint inflammation

Preventing Gout Attacks

• Staying well-hydrated
• Reducing alcohol intake
• Avoiding high-purine foods such as shellfish and organ meats
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Medications like Allopurinol, Febuxostat, and Probenecid to regulate uric acid levels

Addressing Chronic Gout and Joint Damage

Repeated gout attacks can lead to arthritis in the affected joints. Once the condition is controlled, treatment may include:

• Physical therapy to restore joint function
• Custom orthotics for foot and ankle support
• Surgical intervention for severe joint deterioration