Is gout a sign you drink too much alcohol? Gout is often seen as a bit of an ancient disease, one that affected wealthy people throughout history rather than something that still exists today.
King Henry VIII famously suffered with gout attacks and for many generations it was known as “the disease of kings” as it was only those with wealth, who drank lots of wine and feasted on red meat, who tended to get it.
However, this is a misconception, with even today one in 40 people across the UK suffering with it. For those enduring an attack for the first time, it will beg many questions, most commonly about diet.
That will regularly lead on to our relationship with alcohol and the question, is gout a sign we’re drinking too much alcohol?
Understanding Gout
A good place to start to answer that question is understanding the connection between gout and alcohol. Just because you do drink and you are now suffering with gout, it does not mean you’re an addict and you need to go through rehab for alcoholics.
Ultimately, gout can be triggered by many things. Gout develops as a result of uric acid forming as a waste product in the body. This occurs when the body breaks down purines which can be found in certain food and drink, including alcohol. Uric acid typically then is dissolved in the blood and excreted through the kidneys.
Gout develops when the kidneys don’t excrete enough and uric acid levels in the blood rise. This forms sharp, needle-like crystals in the joints, which is where the pain from gout comes from.
The Role of Alcohol
Alcohol’s role in gout has long been prominent. It is a risk factor for gout, and heavy drinking can trigger it, due to the high levels of purines within beer and spirits.
What’s more, alcohol can also impair the kidney’s ability to excrete uric acid, which can leave more in the bloodstream.
It is worth noting that alcohol is just one risk factor though, and there are many other dietary factors. The likes of red meat, shellfish and sugary drinks can all play a part, while obesity and other medical conditions can also play a part. Genetics may also make you more susceptible to gout too, so it’s worth understanding the family history to see if that has played its part.
Does Gout Indicate Heavy Drinking?
Back to drinking though. Just because you have gout, it doesn’t mean you drink too much alcohol. A review of your alcohol intake will give you a much better steer on that.
The condition is more closely related to the overall level of uric acid in the body, and that can be influenced by what you eat, other things you drink and your genetic makeup.
That said, it doesn’t mean you can continue to drink at a rate you do, as problematic drinking may be a core trigger. Moderation is key.
Managing Gout: Lifestyle and Treatment
In fact, for those that have been diagnosed with gout, managing the condition involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Reducing alcohol intake, especially during gout attacks, is an important step. Additionally, following a diet low in purines, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying hydrated can all help to prevent future gout flare-ups.
It is possible to get medication for gout and if you are suffering, you should see a doctor. Ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation during attacks, while there are many other anti-inflammatory drugs that can help too. What’s more, integrating foods that have anti-inflammatory properties in them like blueberries and cherries can also ease symptoms of gout. Essentially, it’s all about avoiding an overload of the food and drink that can trigger gout, including alcohol, and enjoying a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
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