Gout
Unfortunately, many causes of ankle pain might not be life-threatening, but the pain can be excruciating. One example is gout, where a collection of uric acid — a waste material — collects in the joints and starts to form needle-like structures. It’s about as painful as it sounds, and most gout sufferers claim it to be worse than dental pain. The uric acid collects into needle-like crystals in the joints, specifically the big toe, the most commonly affected body part of gout. Gout can also spread to other joints, including the ankles. The buildup of uric acid can cause intense sessions of pain and swelling.
Fortunately, there are many ways to get rid of gout and avoid flare-ups. First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand the different foods that can cause a gout flare-up, with most types of beans and lentils being the most common culprit. You can also get rid of the swelling through a cold compress and specific medications for gout. Finally, drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated is a surprisingly effective way of fighting gout. Overall, gout can be frustrating, but there are ways to avoid future flare-ups.
