One of the features of gout is Intense joint pain that can persist for four to six hours. It can limit your range of motion and impact your quality of life. Cypress Foot & Ankle Center recommends early Cypress Creek Ranch gout diagnosis for the best treatment outcomes. Here is what you need to know about gout causes and risk factors.
What causes gout?
Gout is a severe form of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when there are high uric acid levels in the blood. The uric acid transforms into monosodium urate crystals that deposit in the joints.
Scientists have identified genetic factors that affect uric acid production in 60% of cases. Some genes can diminish the body’s absorption of uric acid.
Your diet can also play a role in the development of gout. People who consume beer tend to have elevated uric acid levels in their blood. Foods such as red meat and seafood also increase the risk of gout.
Obesity and lack of physical activity can increase the risk of gout. Excessive fat in the body diminishes the kidney’s capacity to flush out uric acid. However, maintaining a healthy weight reduces symptoms and pain for most patients.
Medication like niacin and aspirin may worsen gout symptoms. You may want to review your drug prescription with your doctor before gout treatment. Your provider may recommend medication that is safer and less likely to intensify pain symptoms.
Who is at risk of gout?
Gout can affect virtually anyone. But men are three times more likely than women to have gout. Uric acid levels are higher in males and remain high throughout their lives. Women usually experience gout during menopause when their uric acid levels rise considerably.
Type 2 diabetes correlates with gout. People with diabetes are more susceptible to hyperuricemia, or the accumulation of uric acid. Similarly, high uric acid levels increase the chances of acquiring type 2 diabetes.
Research also shows the correlation between diabetes and gouts is more common in women. Women with hyperuricemia had a 70% risk compared to women without the condition. People over 45 are susceptible to gout and diabetes.
Another factor is kidney disease, which limits the body’s ability to flush out uric acid. Sometimes gout is a sign of kidney disease. That is why it is advisable to diagnose gout promptly to avoid complications.
Management and treatment of gout
You can manage gout by making lifestyle changes to regulate uric acid levels. Replace or eliminate foods such as shrimp, lobster, and red meat from your diet. Drinking water helps your body flush out uric acid.
Facilitate circulation and helps the body regulate blood sugar, which may worsen gout symptoms. Managing kidney disease and high blood pressure can benefit patients with gout.
A thorough diagnostic process is necessary to discern the factors causing gout. Your provider may prescribe medication to manage inflammation and joint pain. Early treatment can effectively address symptoms and enhance your quality of life.
For gout treatment, call Cypress Foot & Ankle Center or schedule an appointment through our online tool today.