Gout and Diabetes

Gout is a form of arthritis that brings sudden pain and swelling in joints. Diabetes is a disease that occurs when blood glucose, also known as blood sugar, becomes too high.

While gout and diabetes are two different health problems, and some people deal with one and not the other, it’s not uncommon for patients to suffer from both. The reason could be the presence of excess uric acid in both health conditions.

Gout, a painful inflammatory arthritis, can flare overnight and while it often appears in the big toe, the condition also can affect the hand, wrist and elbow.

The affected areas can become red, swollen, warm and extremely tender when touched. The pain can be relieved with over-the-counter remedies, but gout can return and create chronic issues.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease and occurs when blood sugar can’t be maintained at normal levels because of the body’s inability to process insulin. It can develop over years and usually appears in older adults – but cases are now increasing for children, teens and young adults – and doesn’t always present symptoms.

People who are overweight or consume too much alcohol can be prone to the development of diabetes. Other factors include family history and conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. These also can be factors in a flareup of gout.

For patients dealing with gout, orthopaedic physicians can provide an excellent course of treatment to suppress the inflammation, lower levels of uric acid and relieve pain with medications or injections, and, if a serious case, surgery.

Healthy lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, can address gout, and if needed, diabetes, too. Letting gout go untreated can lead to worsening pain and joint damage.

If you are experiencing discomfort, the expert team at Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic can help. For an appointment, call (865) 558-4444 or schedule online today.