Gout is actually produced naturally by the body to break down purine substances in food. Under normal conditions, unused uric acid is immediately discharged by the body through urine and feces. The danger of gout occurs when it produces too much and the kidneys are unable to get rid of it.
High levels of uric acid in the blood can cause the formation of solid crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation and gout. If not treated immediately, these solid crystals can cause various diseases or dangerous conditions, ranging from joint damage to kidney disease.
Various Dangers of Gout
The following are the dangers of gout that can occur if this condition is not treated immediately:
1. Tophi
One of the dangers of gout that is not treated immediately is a buildup of solid crystals under the skin, eventually forming a small white lump called tophi. Inside tophi, there can be a liquid that is shaped like a toothpaste.
Tophi usually appears on the big toe, elbow, arms, ears, fingers, knees, heels, or along the back of the ankle. When gout attacks come, tophi can be inflamed, swollen, and painful, making it difficult for sufferers to perform daily activities.
2. Joint damage
The next danger of gout is joint damage. This condition occurs when uric acid levels in the blood are out of control, causing joint tissue to become permanently damaged.
Usually, joint damage will occur after tophi develops in the inflamed joint. This condition is a serious problem, so surgical procedures are needed to repair or replace damaged joints.
3. Kidney stones
Kidney stones are also one of the dangers of gout if left without treatment. When uric acid accumulates, kidney stones will eventually form. If this continues, this buildup of stones can interfere with kidney function and eventually lead to kidney failure.
4. Coronary heart disease
High uric acid is also closely related to coronary heart disease. This condition occurs due to the blockage of uric acid crystals in blood vessels carried by the blood.
5. Diabetes
Uric acid which is left without treatment is also known to have a link to the occurrence of diabetes. A study revealed that high levels of uric acid in the blood can increase the risk of diabetes by up to 20 percent.
In addition to the various diseases above, the danger of gout can also arise in the form of cataracts, dry eye syndrome, and crystallization of gout in the lungs. If you have gout, consult a doctor immediately and undergo treatment as directed by the doctor, in order to prevent further complications.
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