Gout (cont.)
What are the risk factors for gouty
arthritis?
In addition to an inherited abnormality in handling uric acid, other risk
factors for developing gout include obesity, excessive weight gain (especially
in youth), moderate to heavy alcohol intake, high blood pressure, and abnormal
kidney function. Certain drugs, such as thiazide diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide
[Dyazide]), low-dose aspirin, niacin, cyclosporine, tuberculosis medications (pyrazinamide
and ethambutol), and others can also cause elevated uric acid levels in the
blood and lead to gout. Furthermore, certain diseases lead to excessive
production of uric acid in the body. Examples of these diseases include
leukemias, lymphomas, and hemoglobin disorders.
Interestingly, a recent study
demonstrated an increased prevalence of abnormally low thyroid hormone levels
(hypothyroidism) in patients with gout.
In patients at risk of developing
gout, certain conditions can precipitate acute attacks of gout. These conditions
include dehydration, injury to the joint, fever, excessive eating, heavy alcohol
intake, and recent surgery. Gout attacks triggered by recent surgery are
probably related to changes in the body-fluid balance as patients temporarily
discontinue normal oral fluid intake in preparation for and after their
operation.
Next: What are symptoms of gout? »
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