You’ve likely heard of hyperuricemia, a condition marked by an excessive amount of uric acid in the blood. But what exactly causes it? And how can it impact your health?
High Uric Acid: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Uric acid is naturally produced in the body during the breakdown of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). It also forms in smaller amounts when purines—proteins found in certain foods—are metabolized. A diet high in purines means more uric acid is created.
Normally, the kidneys filter and eliminate uric acid without issues. However, problems arise when the body either produces too much or can’t excrete it effectively. In such cases, uric acid can crystallize and settle in joints, causing intense pain.
Common Causes of High Uric Acid
- Overproduction of uric acid by the body
- Kidney dysfunction leading to poor excretion
- High intake of purine-rich foods
- Alcohol and substance use
Additional Risk Factors
- Frequent caffeine or alcohol consumption
- Family history of gout
- Use of iodine-based contrast for X-rays
- Chronic stress
- Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol
Symptoms
High uric acid often goes unnoticed at first. However, one major complication is gout, caused by uric acid crystals building up in the joints.
Other signs include:
- Swollen, red, or painful joints
- Limited joint movement—especially in fingers, knees, ankles, heels, and toes
- Joint deformities in severe cases
- Recurrent kidney stones causing back pain and difficulty urinating
Treatment
The main goal is to lower uric acid levels. This typically involves:
- Dietary changes: Avoid purine-rich foods and drink plenty of low-mineral water
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and drugs that reduce or block uric acid absorption
- Preventive meds: Xanthine oxidase inhibitors may be prescribed for long-term control, not just during flare-ups
Recommended Foods
- Artichokes
- Onions
- Celery
- Pumpkin
- Carrots
- Strawberries
- Citrus fruits
- Eggs
- Low-mineral water
Foods to Avoid
- Red meat
- Shellfish
- Certain fish
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Cauliflower
- Asparagus
- Alcohol
- Sugary soft drinks
Prevention Tips
- If you’re at risk, get annual checkups
- Drink chamomile or horsetail infusions twice a week
- Stay hydrated—aim for at least 2 liters of water daily
- Limit red meat and seafood
- Always seek medical advice for symptoms or concerns
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before making health changes.