Can Gout Lead to Kidney Stone Formation?

What is the Connection Between Gout and Kidney Stones?

Gout occurs when there is an excess of uric acid in the blood, a condition known as hyperuricemia. Uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism, which is commonly found in certain foods such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol. While the body usually dissolves and excretes uric acid through urine, excessive amounts can lead to the formation of crystals. These crystals can deposit in the joints, causing gout, or in the kidneys, leading to kidney stone formation. Regular check-ups are important to prevent such illnesses, and Pantai Hospitals provide services tailored to meet your healthcare needs.

Why Does Constipation Matter in This Equation?

Constipation, though seemingly unrelated, can play a role in kidney stone formation and overall kidney health. It slows the body's ability to flush out waste, including uric acid, thereby increasing its concentration in the bloodstream and urine.

Impacts of Constipation on Kidney Health:

• Reduced water intake, often associated with constipation, concentrates urine.
• Less frequent urination allows crystals to form in the kidneys.
• Chronic constipation has been linked to a higher risk of kidney stones in adults 

Quick Tips to Address Constipation:

• (8-10 glasses daily).
• Eat a fibre-rich diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Avoid excessive salt and sugar, which can dehydrate the body.

Who Is at Risk of Developing Kidney Stones Due to Gout?

Not everyone with gout develops kidney stones, but certain factors increase the risk (Wang et al., 2022):

• Individuals with recurrent gout attacks: Chronic hyperuricemia leads to cumulative damage.
• Dehydrated individuals: Low fluid intake raises urine concentration.
• People with poor diets: High purine consumption from red meat, alcohol, and seafood.
• Patients with comorbid conditions: Obesity, diabetes, and hypertension increase the likelihood of kidney stone formation.

Preventative Measures for High-Risk Groups:

• Limit intake of purine-rich foods.
• Use medications like allopurinol to manage uric acid levels.
• Schedule regular check-ups with a nephrologist to monitor kidney health.

How Can You Prevent and Manage Gout-Related Kidney Stones?

Preventing kidney stones while managing gout requires a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes, medications, and lifestyle adjustments. Staying hydrated is the cornerstone of prevention. Drinking at least 2–3 liters of water daily helps dilute urine, reducing the likelihood of uric acid crystal formation. A diet low in purines found in red meat, shellfish, and alcohol can also lower uric acid levels, minimizing gout flare-ups and reducing the risk of kidney stones.

Medical interventions play a vital role in both prevention and treatment. Potassium citrate, for instance, can alkalize urine, making it less conducive to uric acid stone formation. For individuals with chronic hyperuricemia, medications such as allopurinol and febuxostat are effective in reducing uric acid production. These treatments are often combined with lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly, to improve metabolism and support overall kidney function.

In cases of acute kidney stone episodes, symptoms such as severe pain, nausea, and blood in the urine require immediate medical attention. Small stones may pass naturally with increased fluid intake, while larger ones might necessitate medical procedures such as lithotripsy or surgery. Regular monitoring and proactive measures are essential for individuals with a history of gout and kidney stones to maintain kidney health and prevent recurrences.

Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals

So, book an appointment now at Pantai Hospitals for your regular check-ups. You may also schedule an appointment through our website or by downloading the My Health 360 application from the Google Play Store.

Need specialised care? Book your appointment with our Internal Medicine specialist for gout and consult our Nephrologist for kidney stones. Your health is our priority — don’t wait, take the first step today! Call us at 07-433 8811 — your health is our priority. Don’t wait, take the first step today with PHBP.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.