We often associate arthritis with older patients who have lived an active lifestyle. Since it’s a prevalent form of arthritis known for its sudden pain and joint tenderness attacks, gout can impact anyone. While the symptoms of gout pain are not long-lasting, it’s essential to perform preventative measures to handle it, as its side effects can be unbearable and debilitating. At the Maryland Gout Institute, we aim for you to leave our practice with an enjoyable experience, so Dr. Mark Spier and our team will do everything possible to make you feel comfortable.
For gout treatment in Baltimore County, Maryland, call the Maryland Gout Institute at 410-709-0885 or complete and submit our online form to schedule a same-day appointment. We are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 11710 Reisterstown Rd, Suite 208, Reisterstown, MD 21136.
What Should You Know About Gout?
Gout is arthritis that triggers sudden and severe joint pain attacks. It can impact the joints of the arms and legs, but is primarily located in the big toe joints.
How Does Gout Look or Feel Like?
The symptoms of gout usually occur when you least expect them. The duration and frequency of gout pain attacks may depend on each patient. Symptoms of gout include the following:
- Feeling intense, debilitating joint pain
- Lingering, dull pain that triggers discomfort all the time
- Inflammation and swelling of the affected joint
- You may notice redness of the skin
- Sometimes, urate crystals can create lumps under the skin known as tophi
Your primary physician can diagnose gout through a joint fluid examination. A needle drains fluid from the affected joint to test it under a microscope. A blood examination could also help determine the amount of uric acid in your body.
What Can Cause Gout?
Several factors can cause gout, such as:
- You are more likely to develop gout if you consume foods and beverages high in purines, like red meat, seafood, sugary drinks, and alcohol.
- Certain health conditions or diseases, such as diabetes, kidney disease, high blood pressure, and obesity, may increase the risk of gout.
- Medicines, like low-dose aspirin and diuretics, can increase the risk of uric acid levels in your body.
- Gout is more likely in men than women, especially between 30 and 50.
- A family history of gout raises the chances of developing gout.
Ways to Prevent Gout
You should consider performing the following preventative measures to prevent gout:
- Drink lots of fluids while limiting sugary beverages to prevent potential gout attacks.
- Make life changes to lose weight gradually and maintain it to prevent gout pain.
- Excessive alcohol consumption is more likely to boost the chances of a gout attack.
- Low-fat dairy products in your diet are proven to assist with managing gout pain.
Why Choose the Maryland Gout Institute for Gout Treatment in Baltimore County, MD?
Gout is a painful, yet treatable, health condition. Without intervention, recurrent gout attacks may result in joint damage and chronic pain, significantly impacting one’s quality of life. With the right approach, patients in Baltimore County can manage their gout pain successfully. Since 1984, Dr. Mark Spier has helped determine your gout treatment plan based on several factors, including age, current medications, well-being, medical condition, and severity of gout attacks.
If you are tired of having foot and gout pain or have questions about gout treatment, please contact us. Our specialists use the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies to address foot and ankle issues for residents in Baltimore County and other areas in Maryland.
Proudly Serving Gout Treatment in Baltimore County, MD
We proudly serve foot and ankle treatments for Baltimore County, MD and surrounding areas:
Learn What Our Amazing Customers Say About Us
- “I have known Dr. Mark Spier since he began his practice in the Rotunda in Baltimore City area. He is a kind, funny, and a compassionate doctor that cares for his patients. He is the best podiatrist I have ever seen! Highly recommend.!” – Ted K.
- “A very caring doctor for my elderly Dad. A lot of patience and informative for our family to understand his treatment. Thank you” – Sharlene M.
Contact the Maryland Gout Institute for Gout Treatment in Baltimore County, Maryland
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 at (410) 847-7287! Follow our blog, Facebook, and X.