High Uric Acid

Introduction

Uric acid is a natural waste product formed when the body breaks down substances called purines, found in certain foods and drinks. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted through urine. However, if too much is produced or too little is eliminated, it can build up in the blood, leading to a condition called hyperuricemia. This can cause health problems like gout, kidney stones, or joint pain.

Causes of High Uric Acid

• Diet high in purines (red meat, organ meats, seafood, alcohol, sugary drinks)

• Obesity

• Kidney disease (reduced ability to eliminate uric acid)

• Genetics (family history of gout or hyperuricemia)

• Certain medications (like diuretics, low-dose aspirin)

• Medical conditions (high blood pressure, diabetes, metabolic syndrome)

• Dehydration (less water means less uric acid removed through urine)

Symptoms of High Uric Acid

• Pain, swelling, and redness in joints (especially the big toe – classic gout attack)

• Stiffness in joints

• Formation of uric acid crystals under the skin (called tophi)

• Kidney stones (severe back or side pain, blood in urine)

• Fatigue and difficulty moving joints during flare-ups

(Note: Some people may have high uric acid without symptoms.)

Diagnosis

• Blood Test – Measures the level of uric acid in the blood.

• Urine Test – Measures how much uric acid is being eliminated.

• Joint Fluid Test – In cases of severe joint swelling, fluid may be tested for uric acid crystals.

• Imaging Tests – X-rays or ultrasound may be used if joint damage or stones are suspected.

Treatment

• Medications:

  
  

  • For acute gout attacks: Painkillers (NSAIDs), colchicine, or steroids.

  • For lowering uric acid: Drugs like allopurinol or febuxostat.

  
  

• Lifestyle Changes:

  
  

  • Weight loss if overweight

  • Drinking plenty of water

  • Avoiding high-purine foods

  • Limiting alcohol and sugary drinks

  • Managing associated conditions like diabetes or hypertension

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Natural Home Remedies

• Drink more water – Helps flush out uric acid.

• Eat low-purine foods – Such as vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains.

• Cherry juice – May help lower uric acid levels and reduce inflammation.

• Vitamin C – Foods rich in vitamin C (like oranges) may help lower uric acid.

• Limit alcohol – Especially beer and spirits which raise uric acid.

• Cut down on sugary foods and beverages – Especially those with high-fructose corn syrup.

• Exercise regularly – Helps maintain healthy weight and reduces uric acid levels.

• Avoid crash dieting – Rapid weight loss can temporarily raise uric acid levels.

Summary

High uric acid is manageable with the right care, diet, and lifestyle. Left untreated, it can lead to serious problems like gout and kidney stones. If you experience joint pain, swelling, or a history of kidney stones, consult your doctor for evaluation and proper management. Early diagnosis and changes in daily habits can make a big difference.

Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)

Internal Medicine Specialist

Kify Hospital

Danavaipeta

Rajahmundry

Phone : 85000 23456

www.KifyHospital.com