Gout is a common inflammatory joint condition. Knowing the cause of gout can help you avoid this condition. At least avoid the things that trigger.
Gout attacks are usually triggered by diet or certain conditions. Some of them can actually be avoided by implementing healthy lifestyle changes. Let’s see what are the causes of gout!
Various Causes of Gout
Gout is caused by the formation of urate crystals in body tissues. It usually occurs in or around the joint and causes painful inflammation.
Uric acid crystals can settle in tissues when there is too much uric acid in the blood. These substances are produced when the body breaks down substances known as purines. Too much uric acid in the blood is also known as hyperuricemia.
Broadly speaking, the cause of gout is a decrease in the excretion of uric acid, an increase in uric acid production, or a high intake of purine foods. The following are the causes of gout according to experts:
Increased Uric Acid Production
Increased production of uric acid can also be a cause of gout. In most cases, the cause of increased uric acid production is unknown. This condition can be caused by an enzyme abnormality and can occur in conditions such as:
- lymphoma.
- Leukemia.
- Hemolytic anemia.
- psoriasis.
It can also occur as a side effect of chemotherapy or radiation therapy, because of a hereditary disorder, or because of obesity.
High Purine Diet
Purines are natural chemical components of DNA and RNA. When the body breaks it down, it turns into uric acid. Some purines are found naturally in the body. However, a diet high in purines can be a cause of gout.
Some foods are very high in purines and can increase uric acid levels in the blood. These high-purine foods include:
- Innards; such as kidney, liver, and sweetbread.
- Red meat.
- oily fish; such as sardines, anchovies, and herring.
- Certain vegetables, including asparagus and cauliflower.
- Peas.
- Mushroom.
Factors That Can Increase Risk
In many cases, the exact cause of gout or hyperuricemia is unknown. In some cases, the use of certain medications or medical conditions can also be the cause of this condition.
The following factors are thought to increase the risk:
- Genetics; People with families who suffer from gout are more likely to experience the condition.
- Drugs; Some drugs that can increase the risk of gout are aspirin, thiazide diuretics, immunosuppressants, niacin, and drugs for Parkinson’s disease.
- Alcohol consumption; Alcohol is a high-purine drink. Lead exposure, especially high levels are also associated with gout.
- Other health conditions; For example, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, hemolytic anemia, and psoriasis.
Well, that’s a discussion about the causes of gout and various risk factors to watch out for. If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor or go to the hospital.
