Let's put it this way: gout indeed shows a tendency to "cluster in families," but it's not entirely a hereditary disease.
You can imagine it as fate dealing you a hand of cards. If you have elders with gout in your family, you might have a few more cards in your hand that make you "prone to gout." But this doesn't mean you're destined to lose.
More specifically, some people's genes determine that their bodies are naturally less efficient at processing "uric acid" than others. Uric acid is a waste product generated after the metabolism of a substance called "purine" in our bodies. Under normal circumstances, it's excreted through urine. But if your genes compromise your body's ability to excrete uric acid, then this "waste" tends to accumulate in your body.
When it accumulates excessively, it crystallizes, forming needle-like structures that prick your joints, especially in areas like your toes and ankles, and then triggers that agonizing "gout."
Therefore, if someone in your family has gout, like your father or grandfather, you are indeed more susceptible than the average person. Your "starting line" is different; others might eat and drink whatever they want without issues, but for you, a slight oversight can lead to elevated uric acid levels.
But! Here's the crucial point!
Genes are just a foundation; what truly ignites the fuse is often your own lifestyle habits. Even if you've been dealt a "bad hand," as long as you play it well, you can still avoid gout attacks.
These few things are key:
- Watch your diet: Eat less seafood, organ meats, and rich meat broths – these are extremely high in purines. Red meat should also be consumed in moderation.
- Quit alcohol: Especially beer, which is practically a "catalyst" for gout. Spirits and wine also need to be controlled.
- Reduce sugary drinks: Fructose-sweetened beverages, milk tea, and similar drinks also affect uric acid excretion and are "invisible killers."
- Drink plenty of water: Plain water is the best beverage. Drink enough daily (around 2 liters) to help your body excrete uric acid.
- Get moving: Exercise moderately and control your weight. Obese individuals are more prone to gout.
To summarize: Having a family history means you have a "susceptible constitution" and need to be more vigilant than others. But this is by no means fate; you can absolutely minimize the risk of onset through a healthy lifestyle, ensuring those "bad cards" never get played.