How Is Gout in the Big Toe Treated?
The treatment for gout in the big toe usually involves taking prescribed medications that include anti- inflammatory drugs, allopurinol or colchicine for a gout attack or flare-up, as noted by WebMD. For gout attacks that are not severe, some home treatments include using cold compresses on the affected joint, avoiding activities that place stress on the toe and not eating foods with a high purine content.
Gout is a type of arthritis that can cause severe pain, inflammation and stiffness in the big toe, although other joints in the body can also be affected. An acute gout attack causes pain, inflammation, tenderness and redness in the toe joint. To relieve the inflammation, doctors can prescribe non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs. Colchicine is a common medicine utilized either as a preventive measure or to treat a sudden gout attack, according to Mayo Clinic. Corticosteroids, which are injected into the joint, are other medications used for gout arthritis.
Because a diet that is high in purine foods can lead to the build- up of uric acid in the body, doctors can recommend another treatment option, such as dietary changes that include avoiding or limiting alcohol and foods that are rich in purines like organ meats, as stated by WebMD. Exercising and maintaining a healthy body weight also reduces a person's risk of suffering gout attacks.
