What causes foot gout?
Uric acid buildup in the joints is the main cause of gout in foot. Some people are more prone to it than others. For example, patients who are obese, patients with diabetes, sickle cell anemia, and kidney problems are more likely to develop foot gout. Some studies by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases seem to indicate that people with a family history of gout are prone to it as well. People who drink alcohol often may also be prone to gout. Alcohol impedes the body from effectively ridding itself of uric acid, thus encouraging gout. People who are exposed to lead, eat rich diets that include a lot of purine, and take medications such as aspirins and diuretics (among others) may also be susceptible to foot gout.
