Your big toe and your penis? That's according to the results of a cross-sectional survey of men at a rheumatology clinic. \
I'll end the medical suspense. Men who suffer from severe gout usually have erectile dysfunction or ED. It makes sense to screen patients with gout for ED.
Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis in men over 40. It is caused by deposits of urate crystals in the joints that cause inflammation, pain and swelling. Gout is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and coronary artery disease. It is an inflammatory disease that affects the heart. At Second Nature, we test for uric acid (gout marker) and screen for all linked cardiovascular disease markers.
Men don't typically talk about sexual complaints so practitioners must take the lead and ask specific questions. I make it a part of the physical exam so it follows a natural course of conversation. I find that once I start the dialogue most men are eager to share their concerns.
One in Five men who present with erectile dysfunction have silent coronary artery disease.
If you have gout and erectile dysfunction it becomes a double whammy and silent coronary artery disease must be included in the evaluation as these patients are at risk for cardiomyopathies.
Gout can be reversed with strict dietary changes, nutraceuticals to reduce the inflammatory response like DFH Inflammatone, botanical medicines and colonics.