A new study has discovered that sleep apnea may increase the risk of developing gout and experiencing gout flare ups. Lead author Yuqing Zhang of the Boston University Clinical Epidemiology Research and Training Unit shared that while obesity plays an important role in both sleep apnea and gout, sleep apnea still increased the risk for gout even when weight was considered. Over a one-year period 270 cases of gout were observed, with 76 in the sleep apnea group and 194 in the larger comparison group. Gout was nearly twice as common in the sleep apnea group in contrast to the comparison group.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with Dr. Robert J. Kaplan from Twin Rivers Podiatry Easton. Our doctors 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, please feel free to contact our office located in Easton, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.