Signs and Symptoms of High Uric Acid
Learn the signs and symptoms of high uric acid, including joint pain, kidney stones, and tophi. Discover the causes and how to manage uric acid levels through diet, lifestyle changes, and treatment options.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 28th Jul, 2025
Introduction
High uric acid levels in the body can lead to various health issues, including gout and kidney stones. Understanding the signs and symptoms can help you take timely action and prevent complications. Let’s explore what high uric acid means, how it affects your body, and what you can do to manage it.
What is Uric Acid?
Uric acid is a natural waste product formed when the body breaks down purines—substances found in certain foods and also produced by the body. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood, passes through the kidneys, and is excreted in urine. However, if the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys can’t remove it efficiently, levels rise, leading to hyperuricemia (high uric acid).
Common Signs and Symptoms of High Uric Acid
Many people with high uric acid may not experience symptoms initially. However, when levels remain elevated for a long time, the following symptoms may appear:
1. Joint Pain and Swelling (Gout)
One of the most common symptoms is gout, a type of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals depositing in joints. It often affects the big toe but can also occur in ankles, knees, wrists, and fingers. Symptoms include:
Sudden, intense pain (often at night)
Redness and swelling around the joint
Warmth and tenderness to touch
Limited movement due to pain
2. Kidney Stones
High uric acid can lead to the formation of kidney stones, which cause:
Severe pain in the lower back or side
Painful urination
Blood in urine
Nausea and vomiting
3. Tophi (Uric Acid Deposits Under the Skin)
In chronic cases, uric acid crystals can form lumps called tophi under the skin, usually around joints, fingers, elbows, or ears. These are painless at first but can become inflamed and tender over time.
4. Fatigue and Discomfort
Some people experience general fatigue, discomfort, or a feeling of being unwell when uric acid levels are high, though this is less common.
What Causes High Uric Acid?
Several factors contribute to elevated uric acid levels:
Diet: Eating too many purine-rich foods (red meat, seafood, alcohol, sugary drinks).
Obesity: Excess weight slows down uric acid removal.
Kidney Problems: Impaired kidney function reduces uric acid excretion.
Genetics: A family history of gout or kidney disease increases risk.
Medications: Diuretics and certain other drugs can raise uric acid.
Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and metabolic syndrome may contribute.
How to Manage High Uric Acid?
If you experience symptoms or have been diagnosed with high uric acid, here are some ways to manage it:
1. Dietary Changes
Reduce purine-rich foods: Limit red meat, organ meats (liver, kidney), shellfish, and oily fish.
Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol: Especially beer and sweetened sodas.
Increase water intake: Helps flush out excess uric acid.
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains: Cherries, berries, and fiber-rich foods may help lower uric acid.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Losing weight gradually (if overweight) can help reduce uric acid levels.
3. Stay Active
Regular exercise improves metabolism and helps manage weight.
4. Medications (If Needed)
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe medications to lower uric acid or treat gout.
When to See a Doctor?
Consult a doctor if you:
Experience sudden, severe joint pain
Notice swelling or redness in joints
Have symptoms of kidney stones
Have a family history of gout or kidney disease
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications like chronic gout or kidney damage.
Need Help? Book a Consultation Today!
If you suspect high uric acid or experience any symptoms, don’t ignore them. You can consult a specialist on Apollo 24|7 for expert advice, get a uric acid test, and receive personalized treatment.
Conclusion
High uric acid levels can silently lead to painful conditions like gout, kidney stones, and joint damage if left unmanaged. Recognizing early symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, or fatigue is key to preventing long-term complications. With simple lifestyle changes and timely medical care, you can keep uric acid under control and protect your overall health.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Liritha C
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (GENERAL MEDICINE)
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Lakshmi Sanjitha Kakani
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Rohinipriyanka Reddy
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
General Practitioner
15 Years • MBBS
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Kerala, Angamaly
(425+ Patients)
Dr. Siri Nallapu
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Liritha C
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (GENERAL MEDICINE)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Lakshmi Sanjitha Kakani
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Rohinipriyanka Reddy
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
General Practitioner
15 Years • MBBS
Angamaly
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Kerala, Angamaly
(425+ Patients)
Dr. Siri Nallapu
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
