Uric Acid Symptoms – Causes, Prevention, Risks and Treatment

Table of Contents

What is Uric Acid ?

Uric acid is a product of the body’s natural breakdown of purines, substances found in all body tissues. When the body produces too much uric acid or doesn’t excrete enough uric acid, the level of uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia) increases and can cause crystals to form in and around joints. This condition is called gout.

The Consequences of High Uric Acid Levels

High uric acid levels can have a number of consequences. The most common is gout, a type of arthritis that is caused by deposits of uric acid crystals in the joints. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness in the joint. High uric acid levels can also lead to kidney stones, a condition in which small stones form in the kidneys and can block the flow of urine. Other possible consequences include a decline in kidney function and an increased risk of developing diabetes.

Causes of High Uric Acid

There are a number of factors that can contribute to high uric acid levels in the blood. These include:

• Dietary factors – eating foods high in purines can increase uric acid levels. Purines are a type of protein that the body breaks down into uric acid. Foods that are high in purines include red meat, organ meat, seafood, and beer.

• Genetics – some people are born with a genetic predisposition to high uric acid levels.

• Certain medical conditions – conditions that can increase uric acid levels include renal failure, liver failure, and diabetes.

• Medications – certain medications can increase uric acid levels, including diuretics and aspirin.

• Obesity – being overweight can increase uric acid levels, as excess body weight puts stress on the kidneys and causes them to work harder to clear the blood of toxins.

• Age – as people get older, their kidneys may become less efficient at removing uric acid from the blood.

Preventions of High Uric Acid

There are many ways to prevent high uric acid. One is to drink plenty of fluids, especially water. This helps to dilute the uric acid and helps it to be eliminated from the body more easily. Other ways to prevent high uric acid include eating a healthy diet that is low in purines, losing weight if needed, and avoiding foods and drinks that are high in alcohol or caffeine. Some people may also need to take medication to help lower their uric acid levels.