Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that emerges as an excruciating reminder of our lifestyle choices. Characterized by intense pain, redness, and swelling, gout often targets the joints, primarily the big toe. It is a foot condition that requires specific treatment and care. If you seek treatment from gout doctors in Reisterstown, MD, contact the Maryland Gout Institute to discuss symptoms and treatment options. Call us now at (410) 775-5111 to learn about our foot and ankle treatment services.
We are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Maryland Gout Institute: Gout Pain Specialist in Reisterstown
Gout is not only joint pain – it’s a chronic medical condition with potential severe consequences if patients don’t treat it right away. With the right approach, patients in Reisterstown can manage gout pain effectively. At the Maryland Gout Institute, Dr. Mark Spier , will help determine your treatment plan based on multiple factors, including your age, current medicines, well-being, health condition, and severity of gout attacks.
If you are tired of having foot and gout pain or if you have questions or concerns about gout, feel free to contact us. We implement the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies to treat foot and ankle issues for residents in Reisterstown and other communities in Maryland.
Serving Reisterstown and Other Areas in Maryland
We accept most insurance policies and welcome new patients across Maryland:
- Baltimore County, MD
- Baltimore, MD
- Pikesville, MD
- Towson, MD
- Owings Mills, MD
Feel free to contact the gout doctors at the Maryland Gout Institute at (410) 975-7779 regarding gout management or treatment. We are available to treat all of your foot and ankle ailments.
What is Gout?
Gout is a complex type of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden, severe flare-ups that can be unbearable. It most often impacts the big toe, but it can also impact the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers. Without the ideal medical care, gout attacks can become more common and more debilitating. That is why early diagnosis and professional treatment from experienced gout doctors in Reisterstown are vital.
What Does Gout Look Like?
Gout attacks are painful and may occur suddenly, often overnight. During a gout attack, symptoms might include:
- Intense pain
- Redness or discoloration on the skin
- Stiffness in the joint
- Swelling on the skin
- Tenderness, even if it’s a light touch
- A sensation of your joint being on fire
The gout doctors at the Maryland Gout Institute can diagnose gout in patients in Reisterstown, MD, by completing a joint fluid exam. This exam uses a needle to drain fluid from the distressed joint and test it under a microscope. A blood examination can also determine the amount of uric acid in the body.
What Causes Gout in Patients in Reisterstown?
Excess uric acid within your body can cause gout. Your body naturally makes uric acid when breaking down chemicals (purines) in certain beverages and foods. Normally, your kidneys filter out uric acid out of your blood as you pee. However, if your body makes excessive uric acid or your kidneys don’t remove it from your bloodstream fast enough, uric acid crystals can build up and settle into your joints, triggering sudden pain episodes, swelling, and other symptoms.
Risk Factors of Gout in Reisterstown Patients
Gout doesn’t discriminate against anyone. However, men are more likely to get the chronic condition. Women usually don’t experience gout until after they have had menopause. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions can also develop gout, including:
- Overweight or obesity
- Heart problems, diabetes, kidney disease
- Blood cancer
- Family history of gout
- Diet high in animal proteins, especially shellfish
- Drink excessive alcohol
- Diuretic medication
Manage Your Health with Our Gout Doctors in Reisterstown, MD
Managing uncontrolled gout can be a challenge, but having a specialist by your side can make a substantial difference. If you’re struggling with painful flare-ups, stiffness, or lumps under the skin caused by gout, Dr. Spier can design a personalized treatment plan for lasting relief. Overall, a gout doctor in Reisterstown, MD, comprehends your condition and can recommend treatments to help you obtain long-lasting relief.
If you want to stop suffering from gout, book an appointment by calling the Maryland Gout Institute at 410-847-7287.
Contact Dr. Mark E. Spier and Our Skilled Gout Doctors in Reisterstown, MD
Since 1984, Dr. Mark E. Spier, has been providing various treatment options with a specialization in the treatment of gout. Our practice in Reisterstown, MD, also offers PinPointe laser treatment for heel pain. We pride ourselves on listening to our patients thoroughly and understanding the extent of their foot and ankle concerns. The Maryland Gout Institute accepts most insurance plans and welcomes new patients! To schedule an appointment, call our office today (410) 847-7287! Follow our blog, Facebook, and X.