Uric Acid
Uric acid is a byproduct generated from the metabolism of nucleic proteins and meats within the body. It dissolves in the bloodstream, travels to the kidneys, and is subsequently excreted through urine. The normal levels of uric acid in the body range from 3 to 7 milligrams per deciliter.
Elevated Uric Acid Levels
Elevated uric acid occurs when the body fails to eliminate uric acid efficiently through urine. This can stem from genetic or health-related issues that either increase the production of uric acid or raise its levels in the bloodstream beyond the normal range. Accumulation of uric acid can form microscopic crystals that lead to various health complications, the most prominent being gout. These crystals infiltrate the joint cartilage and deposit within joint tissues, causing intense pain during the friction of bones. Furthermore, long-term buildup of uric acid may result in kidney failure, necessitating treatments such as dialysis or kidney transplantation.
Causes of Elevated Uric Acid Levels
- Breakdown of purines found in food.
- Underlying medical conditions such as various kidney diseases, kidney damage, liver cirrhosis, diabetes, and psoriasis.
- Side effects of medications including diuretics and drugs used for Parkinson’s disease.
- Endocrine disorders and hypothyroidism.
- Obesity, lack of physical activity, overeating, and digestive or metabolic disturbances.
- High cholesterol levels in the blood.
- Preeclampsia during pregnancy.
- Genetic disorders and conditions such as sickle cell anemia.
- Unhealthy dietary patterns due to scarcity or excessive consumption of sugars.
Health Conditions Associated with Elevated Uric Acid Levels
- Gout, which presents with severe joint pain, swelling of the big toe, redness, and peeling skin around the affected joint.
- Kidney stones, indicated by symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, sudden and sharp abdominal pain, discomfort during urination, and blood in the urine.
- Kidney failure, with symptoms including shortness of breath, chest pain, decreased urine output, fatigue, and dizziness.
Strategies to Reduce Uric Acid Levels
- Use anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate pain.
- Avoid purine-rich foods such as liver, red meats, alcoholic beverages, white bread, lentils, peas, beans, spinach, yeast, mushrooms, and oats. Instead, replace them with fruits, lettuce, and dairy products, which have lower purine content.
- Increase water and fluid intake to boost urine volume and assist the body in excreting uric acid.
- Manage weight and eliminate obesity.
- Take uricosuric medications, which either promote the excretion of uric acid or inhibit its production, under medical supervision.
Uric Acid Elevation Video
Uric acid is one of the natural acids present in the human body and other living organisms, but what are the effects of its elevated levels?