The Connection Between Gout and CKD

The kidneys act as the waste filtration system for your body. When someone is suffering from any level of kidney disease, that means the organs are not functioning properly, which in turn affects the body’s ability to filter out normal waste, such as uric acid.

Uric acid results from the breakdown of chemicals known as “purines,” which occur naturally in the body, but are also found in several food items. Because of improper filtration, your body may contain an overabundance of uric acid, which could lead to gout, a condition characterized by uric acid deposits throughout the body.

Sometimes the symptoms of gout, such as painful swelling or joint stiffness, may actually be an indicator of early stage kidney disease. Conversely, an individual suffering from gout will have a buildup of uric acid crystals, which will cause damage to the kidneys as they try to filter through.

Diagnosing Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is ultimately diagnosed with blood, urine, and imaging tests to reveal any abnormalities. This diagnosis is typically pursued after a patient reports to their doctor with complaints of increased fatigue, changes in urination, or the swelling of legs due to fluid retention. The doctor will also perform a thorough physical and test for kidney-damaging conditions, such as untreated high blood pressure.

Diagnosing Gout

Several diagnostic tests are available to identify gout. These include x-ray imaging, ultrasound imaging, dual-energy CT scan, joint fluid tests, or blood tests. Doctors can only diagnose gout during a flare-up, typically when the patient is experiencing symptoms like painful, swollen joints that feel warm to the touch.

What Treatments Are Available for Gout?

Pharmaceutical

Medications available for gout include over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as Ibuprofen and Naproxen. There are also prescription-strength NSAIDs available along with colchicine and corticosteroids. A doctor may also prescribe you medications that can block uric acid production and/or improve uric acid removal. 

Be mindful that certain medications used to treat gout can damage the kidneys. Likewise, some kidney medications can increase the risk of a gout flare-up.

Dietary

We sometimes refer to gout as “The Disease of Kings“ because of its history of afflicting wealthy kings who would over indulge in high purine foods like meat, cheese, and alcohol. To improve the chances of reducing potential gout flare-ups, start by eliminating problematic foods. 

Sardines and anchovies; food high in sugar; and organ meats, like livers or hearts, are just a few of the biggest culprits. You should also limit your overall consumption of red meat and dairy products.

Next, consider adding healthier alternatives that are lower in purine content, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Low-fat or fat-free yogurts and milks are also great substitutions for their high-fat counterparts. 

Additionally, be sure that you are drinking plenty of water to maintain an adequate level of hydration, which will help flush uric acid from your system. Water intake should be double that of a normal day whenever you’re experiencing a flare up. Visit our main website for more information and healthy ideas for your CKD diet.

Collaborative

Because of the various dietary restrictions and medical interventions involved with both chronic kidney disease and gout, the best approach is usually a collaborative one between your nephrologist and your rheumatologist. If you are an individual requiring dialysis to mechanically filter waste from your body, this collaboration is especially important to achieve optimal overall health and function.