"What Are the Hazards of Having Gout?"

Gout: A Disease Resulting from Elevated Uric Acid Levels

Gout is a disease triggered by the deposition of uric acid crystals in joints due to excessively high uric acid levels in the body. If left untreated for an extended period, it can have adverse effects on the kidneys, cardiovascular system, nervous system, and other organs.

Impacts on the Body

1. Kidneys: Hyperuricemia can impair the reabsorption function of renal tubules, leading to increased excretion of uric acid in urine and the formation of urinary stones.

2. Cardiovascular System: Gout is associated with an increased risk of hypertension and coronary heart disease, and when combined with hypertension, antihypertensive medications may be less effective.

3. Nervous System: Gouty encephalopathy is a common complication during acute phases, though its exact mechanism remains unclear, possibly related to metabolic disorders and immune responses.

4. Others: It can also lead to conditions such as diabetes, chronic interstitial nephritis, and renal failure.

Impacts on Life

As tophus in gout gradually enlarges, it can compress surrounding nerves and blood vessels, leading to severe cases of ulceration. This can facilitate secondary infections, posing a threat to the patient's life safety. Therefore, it is recommended that gout patients promptly consult a rheumatology and immunology specialist and actively cooperate with the doctor's targeted treatment to prevent disease progression.

In daily life, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet, avoiding high-purine foods like animal livers and seafood, and strictly abstaining from alcohol consumption.