Do you know the difference between bunions and gout? If not, you’re not alone. A lot of people don’t know the difference, but it’s an important distinction to make. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between bunions vs. gout, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
What Are Bunions?
Bunions are a type of deformity that affects the big toe. They are caused by an enlargement of the bone at the base of the big toe, and they can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Bunions occur when the big toe pushes against the other toes, causing them to become inflamed and form a hard bump.
What Is Gout?
Gout is an inflammatory disease that causes painful joints. It occurs when there is too much uric acid in your blood, which can lead to crystals forming on your joints and causing pain. When it comes to gout vs. bunions, one of the biggest differences between these two conditions is that gout affects any joint in your body while bunions only affect one type of joint: Your big toe!
How to Differentiate Between Bunions and Gout
So how do you know if you have bunion or gout? The main difference between bunions and gout is that bunions are not caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. Bunions are usually caused by wearing tight shoes or other footwear that puts pressure on the toes. Gout is caused by a combination of genetic factors and lifestyle choices, such as eating too much high-purine food.
If you suspect you have either condition, it is best not to try to address them on your own. Instead, get an accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment plan from a qualified podiatrist. Your feet will thank you for it!
Treatment for Bunions vs. Gout
The treatment for bunions and gout can vary depending on the severity of the condition. For mild cases of bunion or gout, you may be able to treat the condition at home with over-the-counter medication and lifestyle changes. However, if your condition is more severe, you may need surgery or other medical treatments.
Now that you know the difference between bunions and gout, make sure you talk to the Advanced Foot and Ankle Institute of Georgia if you are experiencing any symptoms of these conditions! We treat gout and bunions in Marietta.
We hope this blog post was helpful in educating you about the differences between bunions and gout. Thanks for reading!
Learn about other common conditions. Read Hammertoe vs. Claw Toe: What’s the Difference?
