Causes of Gout
FACTORS THAT CAN CONTRIBUTE TO DEVELOPING gout
goul is a painful type of arthritis which is caused by unhealthy levels of Uric Acid in the blood.
Symptoms of goul are painful and are commonly experienced in the big toe, ankles, feet, wrists or elbows, painful gout episodes can last days or weeks. If left untreated, gout can cause damage to the joints and kidneys. There are many factors that can contribute to a person having a high Uric acid build up and developing goul.
MEDICATION
Certain medications increase the bodys uric acid levels such as Diuretics (used to treat high blood pressure) and Niacin which is used to treat high cholesterol levels. Chemotherapy can also cause a sudden onset of gout.
SEX
Men are far more likely to develop goul as their uric acid levels rise during puberty. Women can experience a rise in uric acid levels during menopause. This could explain why women experience symptoms later in life.
DIET
The body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines. Purines are found naturally in our body but certain foods contain high levels of purines eg beef, bacon, pork, seafood, lamb, liver and kidneys.
ALCOHOL

Beer, spirits and wine contain purines which raise the bloods uric acid levels. Beer and spirits generally tend to contain higher levels of purines then wine. Moderate consumption of wine should not significantly increase risks of gout.
SUGARY SOFT DRINKS

A study has found that men who regularly drink sugar sweetened soft drinks or drinks with high levels of fructose had a risk of developing gout.
GENETICS

Gout has been found to run in families. 1 in 5 people with gout have a close family member with the same condition. Certain genes inherited could cause otherwise healthy kidneys to be inefficient at excreting Uric Acid.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol can also increase your risk of developing gout.
Remember that a healthier lifestyle can help to minimise your risk and symptoms of gout.
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