Gout is a type of arthritis that results from the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to severe pain, inflammation, and swelling. Although gout is typically associated with joint problems, recent studies have shown that gout is also linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, refers to a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke. It is a leading cause of death worldwide, with an estimated 17.9 million deaths each year.
Several studies have suggested that people with gout are more likely to develop heart disease than those without gout. For example, a study published in the British Medical Journal found that people with gout had a 25% higher risk of developing coronary heart disease than those without gout. Another study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that people with gout had a 60% higher risk of developing heart failure than those without gout.
One possible reason for the link between gout and heart disease is that both conditions share some common risk factors. For example, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels are all risk factors for both gout and heart disease. In addition, inflammation is a key factor in both conditions, with chronic inflammation contributing to the development and progression of both gout and heart disease.
Also read: 4 Dangerous Gout Myths That You Probably Believe
Uric acid, the substance that forms crystals in the joints and causes gout, may also play a role in the development of heart disease. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are found in many foods. High levels of uric acid in the blood can lead to the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints and can also contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart and other organs.
Several studies have suggested that elevated levels of uric acid are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that people with the highest levels of uric acid in their blood were twice as likely to develop heart disease as those with the lowest levels of uric acid. Another study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that elevated levels of uric acid were associated with an increased risk of heart failure.
Treating gout may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can help reduce the risk of both gout and heart disease. In addition, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, and corticosteroids can be used to treat acute gout attacks and may also have cardiovascular benefits.
Some medications used to treat gout may also have cardiovascular benefits. For example, allopurinol, a medication that lowers uric acid levels in the blood, has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease in people with gout. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that people with gout who took allopurinol had a 25% lower risk of developing heart disease than those who did not take the medication.
Now Listen Very Carefully Here:
Gout is NOT for life — I cured 3 years of gout in 4 weeks
First, let me tell you: you have all my sympathy. I know exactly what you’re going through. When I had gout it was the worst pain I’d ever experienced. I honestly thought I was going to suffer it for the rest of my life.
I know gout will be pretty unpleasant for you too. But what do we do about it?
Eat less meat? Drink less alcohol? Drink more water? Follow the usual advice?
I did all that. It made zero difference to me. The pain remained as bad as ever. Our doctors mean well but the medications they prescribe are trying to manage the disease rather than cure it.
That’s not what a gout sufferer wants. I wanted that disease cured, not managed. I’m guessing you’re the same. Yet researchers from the US and Europe have already worked out what causes gout.
In fact, they’ve known for some years now.
And there is a drug-free natural health program that turns that knowledge into a cure. It has now worked for thousands of us.
It’s not complicated. I had gout for three years. I got rid of it in four weeks.
Since then?
More than two years with no flare-ups. No pain. No nothing. Simply no gout.
It’s your turn now. Let me tell you how it works.
Conclusion
In conclusion, gout and heart disease are linked, with people with gout having an increased risk of developing heart disease. The link between gout and heart disease may be due to shared risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels, as well as chronic inflammation. Elevated levels of uric acid, which are a hallmark of gout, may also contribute to the development of heart disease.