The main reason for the development of a chronic condition like gout is the accumulation of urate crystals around the joints, most commonly in the knees, wrists, fingers, and ankles. The urate crystals are formed out of uric acid, which is a waste product that is supposed to be eliminated from the body. However,excessive amounts of it cause its crystallization.
As the body processes a chemical substance known as purine, its complete metabolization causes an increase in the levels of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is the by-product of the process, which is a waste that needs to be thrown out from the body. But sometimes, there are high amounts of uric acid in the body, and the body fails to get rid of it.
This causes an increase in the levels of uric acid in the blood. The uric acid flows in the bloodstream and the atoms bind together to form crystals. The crystallization produces tiny clusters of uric acid, which have sharp edges and pricks like needles in the joints. This pricking gives rise to symptoms such as:
- Intense joint pain – The pain and swelling most commonly occurs on the big toe, knees, ankles, wrists, elbows, and fingers. The pain might become intense and they may keep coming and disappearing. It might continue to cause intense pain for several days.
- Swollen joints – As the crystals get aggregated around the joint, theyswell up and cause pain.
- Tenderness and high sensitivity in the joints – Swelling and inflammation make the joint turn tender and highly sensitive.
- Inflammation and discomfort – Swelling makes the area turn warm and reddish due to inflammation. The swelling causes discomfort.
- Lack of movement – The person will not be able to move properly. The swelling and pain in the joints, especially when the gout is in the knees and ankles will restrict their movements.
Some factors can be responsible for intensifying the pain and gout flares, which can cause frequent gout attacks. Gout is a chronic condition, that cannot be cured, but it can be managed to a great extent. Its progression can be prevented and the risk of gout-related complications can also be reduced with timely treatment.
Risk factor of gout
As per the National Institutes of Health, men are more likely to experience this condition compared to women. There likelihood of developing such as condition is in the middle age. The symptoms of gout can be severe if it happens at a young age. Although women might seldom experience such a condition, their likelihood of developing gout is after menopause. Most health conditions in women happen after menopause, and gout can be one of them.
Fortunately, its risk can be reduced with several lifestyle changes. Positive lifestyle habits will be beneficial for overall health and not just gout. It can prevent the occurrence of a chronic condition like gout and eliminate the chances of its progression. Most importantly, the best way to control uric acid levels is to limit the consumption of certain types of foods that have high concentrations of purine within them.
Foods one must avoid to prevent gout flares
- Sweetened drinks and sugary foods – Foods items that are loaded with high quantities of sugars must be avoided or eaten in moderation.Excessive intake of such foods can cause a spike in the levels of purines in the blood. The purine gets metabolized to uric acid, which is a root cause of gout.
- Alcohol – Too much of alcohol is linked with higher quantities of purines. Certain types of alcohol such as beer or distilled liquor have higher concentrations of purine, which is broken down by the body to produce uric acid. A spike in the levels of uric acid can further lead to its crystallization and accumulation around the joints, causing pain and swelling. Therefore, one must limit alcohol consumption.
- Seafood – Certain types of seafood such asscallops, tuna, crabs, lobsters, codfish, haddock, mussels, herring, trout, mackerel, etc. are laden with very high amounts of purines. One must consume seafood in moderation because even a small portion of it can spike uric acid levels in the blood.
- Organ meat –Meats like kidneys, liver, brains, and sweet breads come with high amounts of purines. It can potentiate the risk of gout flares. So, one must either eat it in moderation or avoid consuming it.
- Turkey – Turkey can trigger gout flares. One can practice portion control, which will reduce the risk of gout flare-ups. It can be consumed occasionally, that too in moderation.
- Red meat – Lamb, beef, and porkcan be linked with gout glares. It is not safe to consume on a regular basis. Too much of it spikes the uric acid and enhances the risk of gout attack.
So, make sure you do not consume more than safer amounts and eat it only on occasions.