7 risk factors for gout
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There are over 120 different types of arthritis, but the most common form affecting men is gout. Andrew Cate looks at 7 risk factors for gout.
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- 7 risk factors for gout
Arthritis Awareness Week is held in late March every year and is designed to raise community awareness of a condition that affects one in five people.
There are over 120 different types of arthritis, but the most common form affecting men is gout. Gout causes inflammation, pain and swelling in the joints and is caused by a build-up of uric acid - a waste product that is usually flushed out of your body by the kidneys.
Here are 7 facts about gout that may help to increase your awareness of the condition and determine your level of risk:
- Alcohol – Drinking alcohol is a lifestyle factor known to increase the risk of developing gout
- Middle aged - Men between the ages of 40 and 50 are most commonly affected by gout
- Overweight - Being overweight is an additional lifestyle factor that increases your risk of developing gout
- Genetics - Gout runs in families, although not all family members will be affected.
- Dehydration - Being dehydrated from not drinking enough water can increase your risk of gout
- Joint pain - Gout is most likely to affect the big toe, but other joints such as the hands, wrists, knees, ankles and elbows can also be affected.
- Uric acid levels - A doctor can test your urine to check the level of uric acid to help diagnose gout.
For more information on gout, visit the Arthritis Australia website.
Looking at these risk factors do you think you are at risk of suffering from gout?
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