What is High Uric Acid?
High uric acid, or hyperuricemia, is a condition where there is an excess of uric acid in the blood. This can lead to the formation of uric acid crystals, which may cause gout or contribute to kidney stones.
Causes of High Uric Acid
High uric acid levels can be caused by various factors, including:
- Diet: Consumption of purine-rich foods such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol.
- Genetics: Family history of gout or hyperuricemia.
- Obesity: Excess body weight can contribute to high uric acid levels.
- Medications: Certain medications can increase uric acid levels.
Symptoms and Complications
High uric acid may not always present symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Gout: Sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, particularly the big toe.
- Kidney Stones: Painful urination and lower abdominal pain caused by uric acid crystals in the kidneys.
Treatment and Management
Managing high uric acid levels involves lifestyle and dietary changes as well as medication:
- Medications: Uric acid-lowering drugs such as allopurinol or febuxostat.
- Dietary Changes: Reducing intake of purine-rich foods and increasing hydration.
- Weight Management: Losing weight can help lower uric acid levels.