Uric acid is a waste product formed from the breakdown of purines, which are substances found in certain foods and produced naturally in the body.

It is normally dissolved in the blood and excreted through the kidneys in the urine.

However, when the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys fail to eliminate it efficiently, it can accumulate and cause problems.

Causes of High Uric Acid Levels

There are several factors that contribute to high uric acid levels in the body, including:

  • Diet: Consuming a diet rich in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, seafood, and alcohol, can increase uric acid production.
  • Genetics: Some individuals have a genetic predisposition to high uric acid levels.
  • Kidney problems: Impaired kidney function can reduce the body’s ability to filter and excrete uric acid efficiently.
  • Medications: Certain medications such as aspirin, and immunosuppressants, can raise uric acid levels.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight can contribute to high uric acid levels, as adipose tissue produces more purines.
  • Medical conditions: Some conditions, like hypothyroidism, psoriasis, and certain cancers, can increase uric acid production or impair its elimination.

Effects of High Uric Acid Levels

Elevated uric acid levels can lead to several health problems, including:

  1. Gout: High uric acid levels can cause gout, a painful form of arthritis characterised by inflammation, swelling, and redness in the joints. Uric acid crystals can accumulate in the joints, causing intense pain and inflammation.
  2. Kidney stones: Excess uric acid can lead to the formation of uric acid kidney stones, which can cause severe pain, blood in the urine, and urinary tract infections.
  3. Kidney disease: Chronic high uric acid levels can damage the kidneys over time, leading to chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure.
  4. Cardiovascular disease: Some research suggests that elevated uric acid levels may be associated with an increased risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Diagnosis and Testing

A blood test called the serum uric acid test is used to measure the amount of uric acid in the blood.

Normal uric acid levels typically range from 2.4 to 6.0 mg/dL for females and 3.4 to 7.0 mg/dL for males.

Levels above these ranges are considered high and may warrant further investigation.

In addition to blood tests, doctors may also perform the following tests to diagnose conditions related to high uric acid levels:

  • Joint fluid test: In cases of suspected gout, a doctor may use a needle to draw fluid from the affected joint, which can then be examined for the presence of uric acid crystals.
  • Imaging studies: X-rays, ultrasounds, or other imaging techniques can help identify gout-related joint damage or detect kidney stones caused by excess uric acid.
  • Kidney function tests: Blood and urine tests can help evaluate the overall health and function of the kidneys, as well as assess the body’s ability to excrete uric acid.

Managing and Lowering Uric Acid Levels

To manage and lower uric acid levels, several lifestyle changes and treatments can be implemented:

  1. Dietary modifications: Adopting a low-purine diet can help reduce uric acid levels. This includes limiting the consumption of high-purine foods like red meat, organ meats, and seafood, and avoiding alcohol, especially beer. Opt for low-purine foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
  2. Supplementation: dietary supplements containing ingredients which help healthy uric balance can support and amplify the dietary modifications above.
  3. Weight management: Losing excess weight can help lower uric acid levels by reducing the production of purines in the body.
  4. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush uric acid from the body and reduce the risk of kidney stones.
  5. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, improve kidney function, and promote overall well-being.
  6. Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed by your doctor to lower uric acid levels.
  7. Manage stress: Stress can contribute to elevated uric acid levels, so practicing stress reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can be beneficial.