A recently study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology has found that having sleep apnea puts one more at risk for developing gout. Sleep apnea, a condition where one’s breathing repeatedly pauses during sleep, shares a common risk factor with gout: being overweight. The study, which involved a group with sleep apnea and a control group without sleep apnea, reported that after one year those with sleep apnea were about 50% more likely to have a gout attack compared to the control group.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with Dr. Andrew H. Cohen, D.P.M. of Mid-Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Cohen will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices, located in Saginaw and Essexville, MI. We offer all the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet your needs.