Friday, July 15, 2011

Understanding the Causes of Gout

There are many factors that contribute to the development of gout. Genetic factors, age, obesity, metabolism, improper diet, smoking and the abuse of alcohol are all considered to be the causes of gout.

Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs due to high levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. In large quantities, uric acid is difficult to eliminate through the process of excretion and tends to accumulate and deposit at different levels of the body. Uric acid crystals cause inflammation, pain, sourness and swelling of the joints. Gout can also affect skin and soft tissue such as tendons and muscles, decreasing their flexibility and integrity.

Renal insufficiency and metabolic problems are also considered to be causes of gout.

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