Why is gout prone to relapse in winter?
According to Dr. Jigar Haria, Professor of General Medicine, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Uttar Pradesh (India), gout tends to recur more easily in winter and this is largely due to the effects of cold weather. Cold temperatures can increase the crystallization of uric acid in the joints, especially in the distal joints such as the fingertips and toes. When uric acid crystallizes, it can cause inflammation, pain and lead to recurrent gout attacks.
In addition, in winter, we tend to drink less water because we do not feel thirsty, leading to dehydration. This can increase the concentration of uric acid in the blood, which can easily lead to gout attacks. Moreover, in the cold season, people tend to eat more purine-rich foods (such as red meat, seafood), and this can also increase the risk of gout recurrence.
Warning signs to watch out for
These are the signs that patients often experience during acute gout attacks. To be more clear, Dr. Jigar Haria has classified them into the following main symptom groups:
- Severe joint pain, often in the big toe, especially at night.
- Swelling, redness and warmth in the affected joint.
- Limited range of motion of joints.
- Pain lasts from several days to a week.
- Fever and chills may occur.
- Joint damage if not treated promptly.
These symptoms need to be treated promptly to avoid long-term complications.
How to prevent gout from recurring in winter
Keep your body warm: Make sure you don't stay cold for too long, especially in the joints.
Drink enough water: Try to maintain a regular water drinking habit, even if you don't feel thirsty.
Eat right: Limit foods rich in purines, especially in winter when eating habits may change.
Weight control and related medical conditions: Make sure to treat and control problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity if present.
