Understanding Gout Causes And How To Avoid Them

Gout is known as the "disease of kings" or "rich man's disease." As such, people recognized it for centuries as a painful and debilitating form of arthritis. While it was historically associated with excess consumption of food and alcohol, modern research shows gout causes and its risk factors. 

This post will explore the causes of this foot condition. In the process, it will provide practical tips on how to avoid flare-ups and manage this condition effectively.

What Is Gout?

Before we explore the causes of this condition, let's clarify its nature. It is an inflammatory arthritis resulting from uric acid crystal accumulation in joints. 

These crystals cause abrupt and severe pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness, commonly targeting the big toe. Nevertheless, other joints like ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers can also be impacted.

Causes of the Rich Man’s Disease

Here are common causes of gout to help you manage your condition more seamlessly.

• Uric Acid Levels

High levels of uric acid in one’s bloodstream are the main culprit behind gout. Uric acid, a byproduct of metabolism, is typically eliminated by the kidneys. 

However, when the body produces too much uric acid or if the kidneys cannot eliminate it efficiently, uric acid levels can become elevated. As a result, it will form crystals in the joints.

• Dietary Factors

Certain foods and beverages high in purines can increase uric acid levels and gout flare-ups. The foods that cause gout include red meat, organic meats, seafood, sugary drinks, and alcohol, especially beer and spirits.

• Obesity

Being overweight also poses a significant risk for gout. As a matter of fact, obesity ramps up uric acid production. It also hampers the kidneys' efficiency in expelling it, resulting in elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream.

• Genetics

A family history of gout can likewise increase susceptibility to the condition. Genetic variations may predispose individuals to higher uric acid levels, heightening the risk of developing gout.

• Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and kidney disease, are associated with an increased risk of gout.

• Medications

Certain medication causes gout. These meds include diuretics (water pills) and low-dose aspirin, which can raise uric acid levels and potentially spark gout attacks in susceptible individuals.

How to Avoid Gout Flare-Ups

While it cannot be cured, you can effectively manage it with lifestyle modifications and medication. As such, here are some strategies to help avoid gout flare-ups:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight

Shedding extra pounds can lower uric acid levels, hereby lessening the frequency and severity of gout attacks.

• Follow a Balanced Diet

Cut back on uric acid food that causes gout. These purine-rich foods include red meat, organ meats, shellfish, and sugary drinks. Instead, opt for a balanced diet packed with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

• Stay Hydrated

Stay hydrated by drinking ample water to flush out uric acid from the body, preventing the formation of crystals in the joints.

• Limit Alcohol

Cut down on alcohol consumption, especially beer and spirits, as they can elevate uric acid levels and provoke gout attacks.

• Avoid Crash Diets

Crash diets can increase uric acid levels and worsen symptoms. Aim for gradual, sustainable weight loss through healthy eating and regular physical activity.

• Take Medications as Prescribed

Follow your doctor's instructions and stay away from medications that cause gout. Instead, take prescribed gout medications like allopurinol or colchicine as directed. 

• Manage Underlying Health Conditions

Control conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and kidney disease through lifestyle modifications. Appropriate medical treatment can help reduce the risk of complications.

When Should You Seek Help for Gout?

Knowing when to seek help for gout is crucial for effective management of the condition. Here are some signs indicating you should consult a healthcare professional:

• Severe Pain

If you experience sudden and intense pain in your joints, particularly in the big toe, it could be a sign of a gout flare-up. Persistent pain that disrupts your daily activities warrants medical attention.

• Swelling and Redness

Uric acid food that causes gout often results in swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joints. If you notice these symptoms, especially if they are accompanied by pain, seek medical advice promptly.

• Limited Mobility

It can impair joint function, leading to difficulty moving the affected joint. If you find it challenging to walk, stand, or perform routine tasks due to joint pain and stiffness, it's time to see a doctor.

• Fever

In some cases, gout flare-ups may be accompanied by fever, indicating an inflammatory response in the body. Fever, along with joint pain and swelling, requires medical evaluation.

• Recurrence

If you have a history of gout flare-ups or have experienced multiple gout causes symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can offer proper management and prevention of future attacks.

• Medication Side Effects

If you are taking medications and experience adverse effects or allergic reactions, such as rash, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

• Persistent Symptoms

Suppose your symptoms persist despite self-care measures such as rest, elevation, and over-the-counter pain relievers. In that case, it's best to see a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.

Consult With Your Trust Foot Doctor at Prime Foot and Ankle Specialists

It is a persistent condition needing continual management to prevent flare-ups and reduce joint damage.

Understanding gout causes and embracing healthy habits empowers individuals to manage it and enhance their quality of life. 

If you have this condition, collaborate closely with your healthcare provider to craft a personalized treatment strategy for your specific needs. With proper care, you can effectively control gout. 

And with the help of Prime Foot and Ankle Specialists, you can lead a vibrant life devoid of the discomfort and constraints of gout attacks.

So, if you’re ready to free yourself from foot pain, book a consultation with us today.