What Gout Affects
Gout is a crystalline or inflammatory form of arthritis.
Gout develops when there is too much uric acid in the bloodstream. This
dissolved uric acid then comes out of the bloodstreams and forms spike-like
crystals in the joints or soft tissues. The high levels of serum urate cause
painful, swollen, stiff joints, it most commonly appears as sudden swelling at
the base of the big toe.
If you have gout, talk to your doctor about
Chronic Kidney Disease and Kidney Stones
Uric acid crystals build up in the kidneys and can cause
problems. This can range from reduced function to kidney failure. Although the
damage is progressive, the appropriate treatment can slow down its progress. A
study showed that people with gout have a 78% higher risk of moderate kidney
disease. This condition typically has no symptoms. It is estimated that 1 in 5
people with gout can have kidney stones that form when uric acid crystals
settle in the organs and block the urinary tract. The higher the uric acid
level, the higher the risk, the study found.
Heart Disease and Stroke
Studies also reveal that gout is associated with an
increased risk of several types of cardiovascular disease such as irregular
heartbeat or atrial fibrillation, heart attack, and heart failure. It was found
that adults 65 and older at an increased risk of heart attack compared with
those without gout. Gout also increases the risk for peripheral vascular
disease and stroke.
Diabetes
Women with gout are 70% more likely to develop diabetes
while it increases the risk my 20% for men.
Out-of-control chronic gout can be painful, unpredictable,
and cause permanent damage. Even after gout flares end, uric acid crystals from
gout stay in your body, settle in your joints, and damage your bones.
Untreated gout can lead to worsening pain and joint damage. Gout comorbidities include sleep problems, mental health problems, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, tophi, and bone loss.
If you have chronic gout, contact us at (239) 430 3668 to find out more information.
