Can stress cause gout?
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Gout is a rheumatic disease resulting from deposition of uric acid crystals (monosodium urate) in tissues and fluids within the body. This process is caused by an overproduction or under excretion of uric acid. Certain common medications, alcohol, and dietary foods are known to be contributory factors. Acute gout will typically manifest itself as an acutely red, hot, and swollen joint with excruciating pain. These acute gouty flare-ups respond well to treatment with oral anti-inflammatory medicines and may be prevented with medication and diet changes. Recurrent bouts of acute gout can lead to a degenerative form of arthritis called gouty arthritis.
It hasn't been proven that stress can cause gout, but it doesn't mean it isn't a possibility. You have to realize that once you are under stress, your body doesn't function at 100%. With that said, that means your body won't be able to control the uric acid levels which has been a major contributor to gout. Still, the big causes of gout have been shown to be hereditary, diet, and dehydration. Stress MAY cause it, but those 3 are the big factors that seem to cause it.
Yes, stress can cause gout but not directly. In people with gout, stress can increase your body's production of uric acid to higher than normal levels resulting in uric acid crystals forming near the joint. There are other factors as well in your life that also will increase your chances of getting gout such as being overweight, lack of sleep, and consuming unnatural processed foods.
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