When an individual has gout, it is not just a condition that involves an inflamed and sore foot that can be debilitating. Always bear in mind that gout is a condition that is instigated by excess amount of uric acid which is a normal waste product present in the blood. Even though genetics plays a role in determining who will develop gout, it is also strongly linked with obesity, diet and other health conditions.
A high level of uric acid will eventually lead to the formation of urate crystals that will gather in and around the joints as well as in the urinary tract. The sore occurrences of frequent arthritis and kidney stones can develop. If the condition is not treated properly, other health issues will start to emerge.
Arthritis
The initial attack of gout often occurs years after the high level of uric acid was unrecognized in the bloodstream, usually involving redness, intense pain, warm and swelling in a single joint or several joints.
The joint in the big toe is usually affected. The indicative urate crystals are usually present in the joint at this time. The arthritis episode usually resolves after several days up to a week. In most cases, additional episodes can occur that will later on include other joints. As time passes by, the urate crystal deposits and the subsequent swelling can distort and destroy the joints. If you want to learn how to manage this condition, read here.
Tophi
In most cases, urate crystals can amass in other tissues, resulting to painless bumps known as tophi. The tophi can manifest on the tendons including the Achilles tendon, exterior border of the ear and other soft tissues. The formation of tophi is not as prevalent with the availability of treatment options which include medications to regulate the uric acid level and for the attacks.
The individual must be encouraged to limit purines in the diet such as those in seafood and meat since these compounds eventually break down into uric acid. Additionally, alcoholic beverages such as beer as well as those that contain fructose must be avoided to minimize the risk.
Effect on the cardiovascular system
The connection between heart diseases and gout has been noted throughout the years. Based on studies conducted, it is difficult to determine if gout elevates the risk of the individual to heart diseases.
Problems with the kidneys
The elevated level of uric acid in the bloodstream can result to the formation of uric acid stones in the kidneys. Take note that these stones can eventually lead to impaired functioning of the kidneys and can result to blockages in the urinary tract, presence of blood in the urine and sore episodes if displaced and move into the narrow ureters that leads to the bladder.
An additional factor that will complicate the condition is that gout often occurs among those who are hypertensive, overweight and even diabetic. These conditions can interact and can lead to a negative impact on the functioning of the kidneys.