In-Depth Look: 5 Differences Between Gout and Rheumatism
Both conditions cause joint pain, leading many laypeople to assume that gout and rheumatism are similar health disorders. In fact, however, they are two distinct conditions. Furthermore, the differences between gout and rheumatism are quite significant, one of which is their cause.
Let's explore these two disorders further so you can understand them more comprehensively and seek the right treatment.
Understanding Gout

When uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, it causes an inflammatory joint condition known medically as gout.
The formation of uric acid crystals is triggered by elevated uric acid levels. This spike is driven by consuming foods high in purines, which are compounds in DNA that are metabolized into uric acid.
Many foods are high in purines, including some vegetables. However, animal-based foods are closely linked to elevated uric acid levels, such as offal, seafood, and red meat.[1]
Symptoms of Gout
How often do you experience sudden joint pain? To avoid confusion, here are some symptoms of gout if you have it:
- Severe pain: You may experience severe pain in the joints of your feet, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers.
- Prolonged joint discomfort: After the intense pain subsides, you may still feel discomfort for several days.
- Limited joint mobility: If left untreated, you may find it difficult to move your joints.
- Inflammation and redness: The affected joints will appear swollen and red.
Understanding Rheumatism

Rheumatism is a condition that affects the joints when the immune system attacks the synovium, the tissue that lines the joints.
This condition is believed to develop due to certain genes (genetic factors) activated by environmental triggers, such as viruses or bacteria, physical or emotional stress.
Symptoms of Rheumatism:
There are several signs you may recognize if you have rheumatism, including:
- Joint pain: Pain followed by warmth and swelling that can last up to six weeks.
- Stiff joints: Joint stiffness is often worse in the morning.
- Weakness: You may feel physically exhausted and sometimes develop a fever.[2]
What Is the Difference Between Gout and Rheumatism?

Gout and rheumatism differ in several ways, including their causes and treatments. Below are some of the main differences between rheumatism and gout:
1. Underlying Cause
As you have already learned, gout is caused by consuming foods high in purines, which causes uric acid levels to spike. Rheumatism, on the other hand, is triggered by an autoimmune response driven by genetic factors.
2. How Pain Appears
Another difference between rheumatism and gout is how the pain develops. Rheumatism generally first causes pain in the small joints before spreading to larger joints. For example, pain may first occur in the finger joints and then spread to the wrists and elbows.
In contrast, gout pain appears suddenly. It usually affects the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and big toes, accompanied by redness and swelling.
3. Prevalence by Gender
Gout tends to affect men more than women because estrogen helps the kidneys excrete uric acid by reducing its reabsorption.[3]
Unlike gout, rheumatism is three times more common in women.[4] Researchers believe that hormonal changes in women during pregnancy and menopause play a role in the development of rheumatism.[5]
4. Prevalence by Age
Rheumatism is more common in older adults aged 30 to 50 and in seniors aged 60 or older. Gout, on the other hand, can affect anyone, including teenagers and young adults aged 18 to 25.
5. Treatment
Gout is treated with pills that lower uric acid levels, such as allopurinol, uloric, and probenecid. Treatment also involves dietary changes, such as reducing animal-based foods and avoiding alcohol.
Rheumatism, on the other hand, is treated with medications that reduce inflammation, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids. In severe cases, treatment may include surgery to remove inflamed synovium and relieve pain.
How to Manage Gout and Rheumatism

The effects of gout and rheumatism are severe, as the pain can make it difficult to carry out daily activities, while stiff joints may be hard to move.
Unfortunately, there is still no treatment that can fully cure either condition. However, you can reduce the symptoms of both by managing your diet.
To help manage gout, reduce fatty foods and beverages containing alcohol. For rheumatism, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and tuna, can help reduce joint inflammation.
The review above clearly highlights the differences between gout and rheumatism. However, the best diagnosis comes from consulting a doctor. Seek medical attention immediately if joint pain becomes severe or intense!
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