What you need to know about gout
Gout is a form of arthritis which is very painful. It is caused by crystallised deposits of uric acid in the joints. Uric acid is produced when the kidneys are unable to process purines properly, which have been absorbed by the blood. Purines are natural substances found in certain foods, which include red meat, some seafood like tuna, beer, wine, high-fat dairy products, and sugary food and drinks.
Uric acid is usually absorbed into the blood from food, processed by the kidneys, and eliminated from the body in the urine. If you eat too much of foods which are loaded with purines, or your kidneys do not function all that well, uric acid crystals will build up in the blood and be deposited in the extremities such as the joints, like wrists, knees, fingers, and toes. This ailment, known as gout, is sometimes treated as a joke, and blamed on too much alcohol. However, a person who has never had a drop of alcohol can also suffer from gout. You will know you have it, as it causes incredible pain, swelling, stiffness, and redness in the affected area.
Who is at risk for gout?
Gout is far more common in men than in women. This is because until menopause, women are protected by the female hormone oestrogen, which helps the kidneys to process uric acid. During and after menopause, when the oestrogen level drops drastically, women are at the same risk as men of building up uric acid and suffering from gout. High blood pressure and poor kidney function also play a part in the risk factors for gout. However, anyone at risk of high uric acid, both men and women, should monitor their purine intake, to help prevent gout from taking hold.
How gout can affect your sexual health
Gout is very painful, and is always extremely sensitive to the touch. In fact, there are people who have been known to cry out in pain, even if something brushes lightly against the affected area. Studies have shown that high levels of uric acid are connected with the dysfunction of the tissue which lines all the blood vessels in the body. Excess uric acid causes the vessels to swell and become inflamed, and blood flow is subsequently restricted. As far as sexuality goes, for successful sexual encounters, the genitals need a good supply of blood. The penis, in particular, needs a strong supply of blood to provide strong erections, as a reduced flow may result in weak erections, and a higher risk of developing erectile dysfunction. Gout can also make sex unpleasant for both men and women. Partners should always tell each other if a particular activity is painful.
Improve your health
By following a healthy diet which limits eating of high-purine foods, and losing some weight, you will help to keep gout at bay. Certain anti-inflammatory medications may also help, but consult your doctor if you are unsure of anything.
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