Understanding Gout: Common Causes and Risks
This article explains the key causes and risk factors related to gout, including genetic, medical, lifestyle, and dietary influences. Understanding these factors can aid in prevention and management of this painful condition.
Gout results from elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream. Several factors can elevate uric acid, including genetics, health conditions, lifestyle choices, and diet.
Gout attacks are often triggered by specific risk factors:
Genetic and enzyme deficiencies
Individuals with hereditary disorders like Kelley-Seegmiller or Lesch-Nyhan syndrome lack the enzyme xanthine oxidase, leading to increased uric acid production, which promotes gout development.
Health conditions
Patients suffering from metabolic syndrome, diabetes, hypertension, kidney issues, or cardiovascular diseases, or those experiencing rapid weight loss, are more prone to gout.
Additionally, recent trauma or surgery can increase gout susceptibility.
Medication influences
Long-term use of drugs like niacin, diuretics for high blood pressure, aspirin, or anti-rejection medications post-transplant can raise uric acid levels, increasing gout risk.
Demographics
Men are more frequently affected by gout than women, mainly due to higher uric acid levels, with men typically developing symptoms between 30 and 50 years old. Women tend to see increased risk after menopause when uric acid levels rise.
Diet
Diets high in purines—found in alcohol (especially beer), red meats, and seafood—are linked to gout flares. Consuming fructose-sweetened beverages can also boost uric acid levels.
Body Weight
Overweight individuals are at greater risk, as excessive body tissues produce more uric acid, which the kidneys may struggle to eliminate efficiently.
Family History
Genetics play a role, with about 20-80% of gout cases occurring in individuals with a family history of the condition, as reported by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.
