Description

Sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of gout through several potential mechanisms. This sleep disorder, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leads to intermittent hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and fragmented sleep. These conditions can increase oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, which may contribute to hyperuricemia and gout development. Sleep apnea is often associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension, all of which are independent risk factors for gout. Additionally, sleep deprivation and poor sleep quality may affect renal function and uric acid excretion. A large retrospective cohort study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that individuals with sleep apnea had a 50% higher risk of developing gout compared to those without sleep apnea [1]. Another study in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine demonstrated that the severity of sleep apnea was positively correlated with serum uric acid levels [2]. These findings suggest that screening for and treating sleep apnea may be an important aspect of gout prevention and management in susceptible individuals.