Gout: Why Ignoring That Joint Pain Might Be a Bigger Deal Than You Think

Gout has a bit of a branding problem. For many, it conjures up images of kings in velvet slippers, overindulging in banquets. But today, gout is far from a royal problem, it’s an increasingly common issue I see in my clinic, especially among men over 40. 

And while it may present as a painful flare-up in your big toe (and yes, that pain is as intense as they say), gout is much more than an occasional inconvenience. In fact, it can be an important signal that your body is under metabolic stress. 

So, what exactly is gout? 

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that happens when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp, needle-like crystals in the joints. These crystals can cause sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, and redness, most often in the feet, ankles, and knees. 

But here’s where it gets interesting: more and more research is showing that gout isn't just about uric acid. It's also an autoinflammatory condition, meaning your immune system is playing a key role in those painful flare-ups. 

Why does gout happen? 

There’s no single cause, but several factors can increase your risk: 

• Genetics (yes, it can run in families) 

• Diets high in processed foods, alcohol, or purines (think red meat and shellfish) 

• Obesity or excess weight 

• Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome 

• Poor kidney function 

• Dehydration (coffee and beer do not count towards hydration!) 

Often, people with elevated uric acid never develop gout, which suggests there’s more to the story. Factors like chronic inflammation, stress, and poor detoxification can all set the stage for those painful episodes. 

Signs you might be dealing with gout 

• Sudden, intense joint pain (often at night) 

• Swelling, warmth, or redness around the joint 

• Discomfort lingering after a flare 

• Limited range of motion in the affected joint 

Sound familiar? Then it might be time to get your uric acid levels checked. A quick blood test or finger-prick monitor can give you answers in minutes. 

The hidden impact of gout 

Beyond the pain, gout may also be a red flag for bigger health issues: 

• Increased risk of heart disease 

• Elevated blood pressure 

• Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes 

• Kidney dysfunction 

In other words, it’s not just your joints that need support, it’s your whole system. So, play it safe and discuss any symptoms with your GP. 

What can you do? 

The good news? Gout is manageable. And in many cases, flare-ups can be reduced through nutrition and lifestyle changes. 

In my clinic, I support a whole-body approach from nutrition to managing weight and blood sugar levels through balanced meals to exploring triggers and creating personalised nutrition and lifestyle plans. 

Ready to take action? 

If you suspect gout might be affecting your energy, mobility, or quality of life, don’t wait. The sooner you address it, the easier it is to manage. 

You can book a free discovery call with me to find out more about how nutritional therapy might support you. 

Your joints (and future self) will thank you. 

Book a Discovery Call