Effects of Gout.
If treatment for gout is ignored, it can result in a series of complications which can be serious. However, if treated, long term effects of gout are rare. It is necessary to know these gout complications in order that a gout patient will take his treatment and medical advice seriously.
Complications of Gouty Arthritis.
1)Tophi.
Due to high uric acid levels in the blood, urate nodules form under the skin. They are called tophi. This is explained in gout symptoms. Tophi can appear on the finger, ankle, toe, elbow and the ears. Initially they are small but grow in size over time.
2) Loss of mobility and damage to the gout joint.
Further and frequent gout attacks can damage your joints permanently. There is destruction of the bones and cartilage of the joints. Loss of mobility and joint deformities are irreversible.
3) Kidney damage due to gout.
Up to 40% of gout patients may develop kidney stones. Due to high uric acid levels in the blood, monosodium urate crystals get deposited in the kidneys which can result in stone formation and subsequent kidney damage.. However, if a gout patient follows the necessary life style habit and dietary restrictions, complications of kidney stone formation are reduced.
4) Gout and Heart Disease.
More often than not, gouty arthritis is accompanied by coronary heart disease, congestive cardiac failure and high blood pressure. Hyperuricemia is a high risk factor of deaths due to heart disease.
5) Cataract and Dry Eyes.
Gout has been seen to cause cataract and dry eyes.
The above long term side effects of gout can be avoided if the patient of gout follows his treatment and diet regimen religiously. Reading causes of gout will educate you on what can cause gout so that you can stay away from these causes.
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