5 symptoms of Uric Acid that can be seen on the feet

Uric acid is a natural waste product formed when the body breaks down substances called purines, found in some foods and body tissues. The body typically allows uric acid to dissolve within blood, until the kidneys eliminate it through urine. Uric acid accumulation happens when the body creates too much of it, or when kidneys fail to eliminate it properly, thus leading to sharp crystals that develop in joints. Uric acid buildup primarily begins in the feet, before it causes painful gout symptoms to develop in the big toe. Knowledge of the symptoms enables patients to seek medical care promptly. Here are 5 such uric symptoms seen in the feet..

One of the earliest signs of uric acid buildup in the feet appears as sudden and intense pain that affects the joint. The pain typically develops suddenly, and can disturb sleep. The joint of the big toe remains the most common location for pain, yet the condition may also occur in other toes, ankles or the midfoot area. A person with this condition experiences sharp and burning pain, which makes it extremely painful to walk or touch their foot. The intense pain can become so severe, that doctors might assume it is either an injury or an infection.

The inflamed joint area will appear red while becoming swollen, warm to touch, and painful. When uric acid crystals enter the body, the immune system creates inflammation, as it identifies the substance as an injury. Swelling of the joint skin area produces a shiny appearance that stretches due to the increased volume. This swelling, together with redness, appears rapidly after the initial pain symptoms emerge. These symptoms might also mimic Arthritis, which might delay a diagnosis.

Uric acid accumulation within inflamed joints, results in stiffness which makes movement of these joints difficult. The stiffness from uric acid buildup causes discomfort while walking and wearing shoes. The joint area remains sensitive, because light touch from socks or bed sheets triggers painful responses. The inflamed state of the joint produces tenderness, which serves as a major indicator of joint inflammation. When the condition remains untreated, the affected joints will develop decreased flexibility with time.

People who have elevated uric acid levels typically get multiple episodes of joint swelling and pain known as "gout flares". Foot pain and swelling associated with gout flare-ups, typically persist between days and weeks before they resolve independently, but can return later. The control of uric acid levels prevents frequent flare-ups which can develop into more extensive joint problems, throughout the feet, along with other body regions. Attacks from gout tend to become more frequent and severe, without medication or lifestyle adjustments.

When gout remains untreated for extended periods, it leads to the formation of hard lumps beneath the skin near joints, known as "tophi". Tophi consist of uric acid crystals, that accumulate under the skin as firm bumps. Tophi tend to form near the toes and foot areas but they are not always painful, though they cause harm to skin and joint structures. Tophi can create foot deformities together with localised swelling. It can cause infections when they penetrate the skin and create additional health issues.

References:

Mayo Clinic. Gout. [Information on symptoms and treatments of gout].

Arthritis Foundation. Gout and Uric Acid.

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS). Gout.

Cleveland Clinic. Understanding Gout: Symptoms and Diagnosis.

Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice