Q: My big toe hurts. Is it possible that I have gout? Isn’t gout a man’s condition?
A: While gout has a “man’s disease” reputation, many women experience it, especially after age 50. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, which can form sharp crystals in your joints. Women—especially after menopause—are at increased risk of gout because estrogen, which helps the kidneys eliminate uric acid, decreases during menopause, allowing uric acid levels to rise.
The most common place for gout to strike is in the big toe joint, causing sudden and severe pain, redness, swelling, and warmth. The pain often begins at night or early in the morning and can be so intense that even the weight of a bedsheet feels unbearable and wearing shoes is difficult. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s worth discussing with your health-care provider.
There are ways you can reduce your risk, however. Risk factors for gout include a diet high in purines (found in red meat, seafood, and alcohol), obesity, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and certain medications such as diuretics. If untreated, gout can lead to more frequent attacks, joint damage, and tophi, which are hard, visible deposits of uric acid crystals that form under the skin.
Diagnosing gout typically involves a physical exam, blood tests to measure uric acid levels, and sometimes fluid analysis from the affected joint. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol and purine-rich foods, and in some cases, uric acid-lowering drugs. Losing weight can also help.
The earlier you reach out to your doctor the better. Early treatment can relieve symptoms and prevent future complications, keeping you pain-free and active.
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