What is the primary cause of gout in patients?

Gout is primarily caused by the accumulation of uric acid in the bloodstream, a condition known as hyperuricemia. Uric acid is a waste product generated from the breakdown of purines, substances found in various foods and beverages, as well as in the body's own tissues. When the body produces too much uric acid or when the kidneys do not eliminate enough of it, the excess uric acid can crystallize, leading to painful inflammatory arthritis, which is characteristic of gout.

Understanding the underlying mechanism of gout is crucial, as it can guide treatment and management strategies. Addressing uric acid levels through dietary modifications or medications that lower uric acid can significantly alleviate symptoms and reduce the frequency of gout attacks.

In contrast, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and calcium deficiency are not directly linked to the pathophysiology of gout, even though they may contribute to overall health problems. However, they do not influence the uric acid levels in the body or the risk of gout development.