Gout is a type of arthritis caused by deposition of uric acid crystals in joints and surrounding tissues causing severe pain, swelling, and redness.
Causes of Elevated Uric Acid:
- Overproduction: Body produces excessive uric acid from breakdown of purine from food.
- Under-excretion: Kidneys don't excrete enough uric acid — the most common cause.
- Genetics: 20% of gout patients have family history.
- Diet: Red meats, organ meats (liver, kidneys), seafood, and high-fructose beverages.
- Obesity: Increases uric acid production and decreases excretion.
- Medications: Some diuretics and low-dose aspirin.
- Other diseases: Kidney failure, hypertension, diabetes.
Who Gets It More:
Men 3 times more than women — especially after age 30. Women after menopause.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we test uric acid, identify the cause, and create a comprehensive treatment plan.