Gout is a common condition affecting over 9 million Americans. The condition commonly affects the ankle and feet and often warrants specialized care. It is crucial to seek an accurate diagnosis of your symptoms from Cypress Creek Ranch gout specialists to understand the right course of treatment. Also, assessing your risk factors for Gout can help you be alert and notice the condition in time to seek the right treatment. Remember that the condition can cause serious pain and discomfort but seeking timely and effective medical treatment can help. Here are six gout risk factors you should know.

Age and Gender

Men are at greater risk of suffering gout than women. Also, the risk of gout in men increases with age, where older men are more likely to endure the condition. Women also are at greater risk for the condition, especially that past menopause. Consult your doctor to take proactive measures if you are a male between the ages of 30 and 50 with higher gout chances.

Genetics

Investigating and evaluating your family history is critical to understand your gout risk factors. Figure out if a family member has been diagnosed with the condition. Ask if your mother, father, grandparents, or great-grandparents endured gout to determine your risks. Talk to your parents or relatives who could better understand your family health history. The condition is likely inherited, and you are at more risk of developing it when your family history has it.

Obesity and Overweight

Carrying extra weight makes your body too heavy for your lower extremes. It affects the health of your legs and feet, increasing your chances of health complications. Also, being heavy causes your body to produce more uric acid giving your kidney a hard time eliminating it. Consult your doctor about calculating your BMI to understand how obese you are. It involves calculating your body fat against your weight and height. Compare the results with the health-recommended levels based on your gender and age.

Diet

Several dietary choices increase your chances of enduring gout. Assess your diet and determine how much you consume sugar, alcohol, seafood, and meat. You are more likely to develop gout if you maintain a sugar-rich diet, especially soft drinks. It is important to minimize your daily soft drink intake. Also, a diet with a lot of seafood and meat increases your chances of gout. Additionally, drinking alcohol elevates your gout risks, and it is necessary to regulate your alcohol consumption. Consult your doctor if you are unsure of your diet for guidance and counseling.

Medications

Some medications can put you at a high chance of developing gout. Hypertension drugs and medications that suppress your immune system are commonly known to increase your gout risks. Consult your doctor if you previously or currently are enduring psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis or have undergone an organ transplant. Note down all medications you might be taken for evaluation.

Surgery and Trauma

A recent surgical procedure or trauma history can increase your chances of developing gout. Any form of surgery can elevate your gout risks. Additionally, it is important to talk to your doctor if you have undergone chemotherapy, which can trigger gout.

Understanding the factors putting you at risk of developing gout is a step ahead in effectively managing the situation. Contact the Cypress Foot and Ankle Center specialists for more information. Call or click online to schedule a consultation appointment.