Gout: What men need to know about their risk

Gout is a painful type of arthritis that often starts suddenly, many times at night. Men are about four times more likely than women to develop gout. Understanding why can help you lower your risk and get care sooner.

What is gout?

Gout develops when uric acid builds up in your bloodstream and forms sharp crystals in a joint. This can cause sudden pain, redness, warmth and swelling.

“People describe gout pain as intense and sudden,” says Dr. Carla Montero, an internal medicine physician with Aurora Health Care. “Even light pressure on the joint can be unbearable.”

The big toe is commonly affected. Gout can also affect your ankles, knees, wrists and fingers.

“Gout is very treatable, but many people wait too long to get help,” Dr. Montero says. “When we diagnosis it early, we can prevent long-term joint damage.”

Why hormones play a role

Hormones are a key reason men develop gout more often than women.

Estrogen helps your kidneys remove uric acid from your body. Before menopause, women have higher estrogen levels, which offers some protection. After menopause, estrogen levels drop and a woman’s risk for gout increases.

“Men don’t have this same level of protection,” Dr. Montero explains. “Uric acid levels tend to rise earlier in adulthood and remain elevated over time. Without that added help of clearing uric acid, the risk for gout is higher.”

Other gout risk factors

While some factors are outside of your control, you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing gout by addressing the following:

• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• A high consumption of red meat or alcohol

If you have any risk factors, consider modifying your lifestyle to reduce your risk. Changes include eating a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, exercising and drinking plenty of water.

When to see a doctor for gout

If you have sudden, severe joint pain, see your health care provider. Diagnosis may include a blood test, joint fluid test or imaging.

Treatment for gout focuses on relieving pain during a flare-up and lowering uric acid levels long term.

“The goal is to treat pain and prevent future attacks,” adds Dr. Montero. “Lifestyle changes, especially with your diet, can help symptoms.”

If you think you may have gout, schedule a visit with your primary care provider. Early care can help protect your joints and reduce future gout flare-ups.

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