Uric Acid Levels and Management Options
Uric acid levels play a crucial role in conditions like gout and kidney stones. Discover the causes of high or low uric acid, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and effective management or treatment options.
Uric acid is a natural waste product formed when the body breaks down purines—substances found in certain foods and cells. While uric acid is usually filtered out by the kidneys and excreted in urine, high levels can lead to health issues like gout, kidney stones, and joint pain. Managing uric acid levels is essential for overall well-being, especially if you experience symptoms or have a family history of related conditions.
This article will help you understand uric acid, its effects on health, and practical ways to keep it under control.
What is Uric Acid?
Uric acid is produced when the body metabolizes purines, which are found in foods like red meat, seafood, and alcohol, as well as in our own cells. Normally, the kidneys filter out uric acid, but if too much is produced or not enough is excreted, levels can rise, leading to health problems.
Normal Uric Acid Levels
• Men: 3.4–7.0 mg/dL
• Women: 2.4–6.0 mg/dL
Higher levels may indicate hyperuricemia, which increases the risk of gout and kidney issues.
Symptoms of High Uric Acid
Many people with high uric acid may not notice symptoms initially. However, if levels remain elevated, the following signs may appear:
• Joint pain and swelling (gout): Often affects the big toe, ankles, knees, or wrists.
• Kidney stones: Sharp pain in the lower back, frequent urination, or blood in urine.
• Fatigue and discomfort: General tiredness due to inflammation.
• Tophi (in chronic cases): Hard lumps under the skin near joints.
If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Consult Top Specialists
Causes of High Uric Acid
Several factors contribute to elevated uric acid levels:
1. Dietary Choices
• High-purine foods: Red meat, organ meats (liver, kidney), seafood (anchovies, sardines), and alcohol (especially beer).
• Sugary drinks and fructose: Sodas and sweetened juices can increase uric acid production.
2. Medical Conditions
• Kidney disease: Impaired kidney function reduces uric acid excretion.
• Hypertension and diabetes: These conditions are linked to higher uric acid levels.
• Obesity: Excess weight can lead to increased uric acid production.
3. Genetics and Medications
• Some people inherit a tendency to produce more uric acid.
• Diuretics (water pills) and certain immunosuppressants can raise levels.
Health Risks of High Uric Acid
If left unchecked, high uric acid can lead to:
• Gout: Painful arthritis due to uric acid crystals in joints.
• Kidney stones and chronic kidney disease: Uric acid can form crystals in the kidneys.
• Cardiovascular issues: Linked to high blood pressure and heart disease.
Early detection and management can prevent complications.
Get Your Uric Acid Levels Checked Here
How to Manage Uric Acid Levels?
Here’s how to manage uric acid levels:
1. Dietary Changes
• Reduce high-purine foods: Limit red meat, shellfish, and organ meats.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables: Cherries, apples, and citrus fruits may help lower uric acid.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out excess uric acid.
• Avoid sugary drinks: Replace sodas with water, herbal teas, or lemon water.
2. Lifestyle Modifications
• Maintain a healthy weight: Losing excess weight can reduce uric acid levels.
• Exercise regularly: Moderate activity helps improve metabolism and kidney function.
• Limit alcohol: Beer and spirits are particularly harmful; opt for moderation if you drink.
3. Medical Treatment
• Medications: Doctors may prescribe uric acid-lowering drugs (like allopurinol) or pain relievers for gout.
• Regular check-ups: Monitoring uric acid levels helps prevent flare-ups.
When to See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare provider if you:
• Experience sudden, severe joint pain.
• Notice blood in urine or frequent kidney stones.
• Have a family history of gout or kidney disease.
Early intervention can prevent long-term damage.
Take Control of Your Uric Acid Levels
Managing uric acid is about making smart lifestyle choices and staying informed. If you suspect high uric acid levels, consider getting tested and consulting a specialist.
Need help? You can book a urine test or doctor consultation easily through Apollo 24|7 for personalized guidance.
By taking small steps—like adjusting your diet, staying hydrated, and monitoring your health—you can keep uric acid in check and live a pain-free, active life.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Ramya Hari
General Practitioner
18 Years • Medical Head & Family Physician, DG Shipping Approved Doctor, Panel Physician - UK Visa Medicals
Chennai
Apollo Medical Centre Kotturpuram, Chennai
Dr. Indrajit Das
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Ramya Hari
General Practitioner
18 Years • Medical Head & Family Physician, DG Shipping Approved Doctor, Panel Physician - UK Visa Medicals
Chennai
Apollo Medical Centre Kotturpuram, Chennai
Dr. Indrajit Das
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
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