Understanding High Uric Acid Effects
Learn how high uric acid affects your health, what causes it, symptoms to watch for, and simple tips to manage it naturally and effectively.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 3rd Aug, 2025
Introduction
High uric acid levels can affect your health in ways you might not realize. If left unchecked, it can lead to painful conditions like gout or even kidney problems. But don’t worry, understanding the causes, symptoms, and ways to manage it can help you stay healthy.
This article will guide you through everything you need to know about high uric acid in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
What Is Uric Acid?
Uric acid is a natural waste product formed when your body breaks down purines, substances found in certain foods and also produced by your body. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood, passes through the kidneys, and leaves the body through urine.
However, when your body produces too much uric acid or your kidneys can’t remove it efficiently, it builds up in the blood, leading to hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels).
What Causes High Uric Acid?
Several factors can contribute to high uric acid levels:
1. Diet – Eating too many purine-rich foods like red meat, seafood, organ meats (liver, kidney), and sugary drinks (especially those with high fructose corn syrup).
2. Obesity – Excess weight can increase uric acid production and reduce its excretion.
3. Alcohol – Beer and liquor can interfere with uric acid removal.
4. Medical Conditions – Diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome can raise uric acid levels.
5. Medications – Some diuretics (water pills) and immunosuppressants may increase uric acid.
6. Genetics – A family history of gout or kidney problems can make you more prone to high uric acid.
How Does High Uric Acid Affect Your Health?
When uric acid levels stay high for a long time, it can lead to:
1. Gout
A painful form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals forming in joints (commonly the big toe).
Symptoms include sudden, severe pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness.
2. Kidney Stones
Uric acid crystals can clump together in the kidneys, forming painful stones.
Symptoms include sharp pain in the back or side, nausea, and blood in urine.
3. Kidney Disease
High uric acid can damage kidneys over time, reducing their ability to filter waste.
4. Increased Risk of Heart Disease
Some studies suggest a link between high uric acid and heart problems.
Symptoms of High Uric Acid
Many people with high uric acid don’t experience symptoms until complications like gout or kidney stones develop. Warning signs include:
Joint pain and swelling (especially in the big toe, ankles, knees, or wrists).
Red, shiny skin around affected joints.
Kidney pain (sharp pain in the lower back or sides).
Frequent urination or difficulty urinating (if kidney stones are present).
If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to consult a doctor.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
How to Manage High Uric Acid Levels
The good news is that lifestyle changes and proper treatment can help control uric acid levels. Here’s what you can do:
1. Dietary Changes
Limit purine-rich foods: Reduce intake of red meat, shellfish, organ meats, and processed foods.
Eat more fruits and vegetables: Cherries, berries, apples, and citrus fruits may help lower uric acid.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water (8-10 glasses daily) helps flush out excess uric acid.
Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol: Especially beer and soda, which can increase uric acid.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Losing weight gradually (if overweight) can help reduce uric acid levels.
3. Exercise Regularly
Moderate physical activity (like walking, swimming, or yoga) helps maintain a healthy metabolism.
4. Medications (if needed)
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe medications to lower uric acid (like allopurinol or febuxostat).
When to See a Doctor
If you experience:
Sudden, severe joint pain
Signs of kidney stones (pain, blood in urine)
Frequent gout attacks
It’s important to get medical advice. Early treatment can prevent complications.
Conclusion
High uric acid is manageable with the right approach. By making smart food choices, staying active, and keeping track of your health, you can reduce the risk of gout and other complications.
If you’re concerned about your uric acid levels or experiencing symptoms, consider booking a consultation with a specialist or scheduling a blood test through Apollo 24|7. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference in your long-term health.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
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Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
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16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
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(100+ Patients)
Dr. Harshendra Jaiswal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine)
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(25+ Patients)
Dr Aakash Andgi
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Bengaluru
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Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
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PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Harshendra Jaiswal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine)
Kolkata
108 DHANA DHANVANTARI Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr Aakash Andgi
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MBBS MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
