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Gout is a painful and disabling form of arthritis that occurs when excess uric acid crystals accumulate in the blood and deposit in the joint resulting in localized intense joint tissue inflammation. Initial presentation can be the sudden onset of a red, warm, swollen tender joint of the big toe, however, any joint can be involved. Over time, increased uric acid crystals in the blood may lead to chronic deposits of uric acid under the skin, known as tophi, and also cause uric acid kidney stone formation. Gout is more commonly seen in men, women after menopause, and individuals with kidney disease. It is also linked to Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, Diabetes, and Obesity. If left untreated, Gout can result in recurrent joint attacks and irreversible joint damage, which can significantly impact the quality of life.
Here at Southland Rheumatology Center, our board-certified rheumatologist, Dr. Veena Nayak, and her experienced team of licensed clinicians will provide you with an individualized treatment plan for Gout, utilizing a multimodal approach that includes effective targeted medicine combined with an integrated approach of pain relieving techniques, dietary modification, and supplements, as well as physical therapy when applicable. This will be done after a thorough evaluation of your medical history, and physical examination, and with the use of state-of-the-art diagnostic blood tests and imaging technology.
If you’re living with the painful symptoms of gout, don’t wait to find the relief you deserve. Reach out to Southland Rheumatology Center and schedule your first appointment with the team today.
Gout is a rheumatic condition that can occur as a result of uric acid buildup. While uric acid is a normal waste product created by natural chemical breakdown processes, too much of it built up inside your body can eventually harden into crystals which deposit in your joints.
Sometimes, the development of uric crystals happens due to an increase in your body’s production of uric acid. However, it can also be the result of your kidneys being unable to remove uric acid from your body quickly enough to prevent them from forming deposits.
Symptoms of gout frequently include the following:
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be struggling with gout. Gout should never be left untreated, as it can become progressively worse and ultimately lead to the destruction of the affected joint and also adversely affect many other organ systems of the body.
As with every type of treatment we administer at Southland Rheumatology Center, your treatment for gout will be tailored to your specific body and your condition. Your kidney function, lifestyle preferences, and any other existing conditions you may have will be taken into account as we develop your individualized gout treatment plan with Dr. Nayak and her team.
There are some universally common treatment options for gout, and we’re proud to provide them here at Southland Rheumatology Center. These treatment options include:
If you’re ready to start talking to a highly-trained, board-certified rheumatologist about treating your gout, now is the time to get in touch with us. Schedule your first appointment with Southland Rheumatology Center, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly, knowledgeable staff with any questions you have prior to your visit.
Some of the lifestyle changes we may suggest to help you manage your gout flare-ups following a diagnosis include dietary adjustments that cut back on:
You may also consider talking to your rheumatologist about any medications you’re currently taking and discuss whether they may be contributing to your flare-ups.
Yes! Our patient-first approach means that we’re here to help and support you at every step. We’re passionate about patient education, and we’ll offer you lifestyle guidance for managing your gout based on your specific needs and goals.
Yes! Southland Rheumatology Center is proud to accept insurance, and many patients are able to receive coverage for their gout treatment. Please visit our Insurance page to view our list of accepted providers -- if you don’t see your provider listed, we encourage you to give us a call and discuss your options with our friendly, knowledgeable staff.
At Southland Rheumatology Center, we make it as simple as possible for you to get back to living your life the way you love to live it. Just use our online scheduling tool to make your appointment, and please feel free to call us at 708-283-2600 with any questions you have prior to your visit. We’re here to help.