👉 हिंदी में पढ़ें: गाउट (गठिया) के कारण क्या हैं?
Gout is a type of inflammatory condition that causes painful crystals to form inside small joints (such as the big toe). This leads to intense pain and inflammation during flare-ups. ‘Flare-ups’ are episodes where gout symptoms feel more intense.
*Note: Gout symptoms tend to come and go in episodes, meaning there can be periods where you don’t experience any symptoms at all.
In this blog, we are going to discuss some major causes of gout development and flare-ups. Read along to know more about what you can do to avoid these causes.
What Causes Gout?
Excess Uric Acid
Uric acid is essentially a waste product produced in the body when it breaks down purine-rich foods. Typically, uric acid is either dissolved in blood or passed out through urine. However, when the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys are unable to remove enough of it, uric acid levels start rising in the bloodstream, resulting in gout.
The cause of high uric acid can vary; diet, genetics, and certain medications can play a role in its spike. Increased levels make you more prone to frequent gout attacks.
High Purine Diet
As mentioned above, uric acid production is a direct result of the body breaking down purines. Purines refer to natural compounds found in many everyday foods we consume. Purine-rich foods include red meat, alcohol (especially beer), shellfish like lobster, shrimp, and scallops, etc. These can significantly raise uric acid levels, leading to intense gout attacks.
The best way to avoid purine-induced gout attacks is to substitute these food items with low-purine foods in your everyday diet.
Genetics
Gout can also be a result of a genetic predisposition. This is especially common in men. A certain set of genetic defects can affect how the kidneys process uric acid – instead of excreting it, this genetic defect leads to retention of excess uric acid. So, having male relatives with a history of gout in your family can increase your risk of developing it as well.
Dehydration
When your body is severely dehydrated, your kidneys do not function properly. This can hamper the kidneys’ ability to flush out uric acid. Consequently, the uric acid buildup leads to gout attacks. Not just that, when kidney function is impaired, it can even lead to the formation of kidney stones.
Obesity
Obesity is linked to many chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, etc. But did you know that it’s also associated with gout? That’s true! Excess body weight doesn’t just cause strain on the body; it can also have a considerable negative impact on internal organs and their functions.
People who are obese tend to have relatively higher uric acid levels. This leads to gout attacks and symptom flare-ups.
If you or a loved one notices symptoms that may indicate gout, visit Sohana Hospital for a detailed diagnosis and treatment. Our dedicated rheumatology department boasts expert rheumatology doctors who work with committed support staff, advanced diagnostic tools, and modern treatment facilities – to help treat a multitude of rheumatic diseases.
Some common modes of treatment include NSAIDs, corticosteroids, DMARDs, biologics, intra-articular injections, and surgery (in severe cases).
Additionally, our rheumatologists regularly collaborate with other departments, ensuring every patient gets a fully personalised treatment plan, fitted to their unique condition and health requirements.
👉 You can also read: Things You Can Do To Prevent Gout