High uric acid occurs when its levels in the blood exceed 0.7 mg/dL in men and 0.6 mg/dL in women (1).


What is Uric Acid?

Uric acid is a byproduct of purine breakdown, which is naturally found in certain foods and also produced by the body. Normally, the kidneys filter uric acid from the blood and eliminate it through urine (1).


Causes of High Uric Acid

High uric acid occurs when the body produces excessive amounts or fails to eliminate enough, or due to both factors combined.

✔ Diet

Consuming purine-rich foods can raise uric acid levels, including:

  • Red meat
  • Beef and lamb liver and kidneys
  • Seafood, especially shellfish
  • Sugary drinks
  • Alcohol


✔ Certain Medications

  • Diuretics
  • Some immunosuppressive drugs, such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus (2).


✔ Medical Conditions

Certain diseases may impair the body's ability to remove uric acid effectively, such as:

  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Kidney disease
  • Thyroid disorders (2).


✔ Genetic Factors

In some cases, high uric acid levels may be inherited (2).


Symptoms and Risks of High Uric Acid

High uric acid often does not cause any symptoms, and many people are unaware of their condition until they undergo routine blood tests or are diagnosed with another medical issue. However, chronic elevation of uric acid levels can lead to:

✔ Gout

  • Caused by the accumulation of sharp uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to:
  • Sudden and severe joint pain
  • Swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected joint


✔ Kidney Stones

  • Uric acid crystals may cluster together to form kidney stones, leading to:
  • Severe pain
  • Blood in urine
  • Difficulty urinating


⚠ High uric acid levels can contribute to chronic kidney disease or worsen existing kidney conditions, and vice versa (2).


Treatment for High Uric Acid

If there are no symptoms, a doctor may recommend regular monitoring of uric acid levels through routine blood tests.

For individuals experiencing symptoms, a personalized treatment plan is created based on the severity and underlying cause. Treatment options may include:

✔ Dietary Modifications

  • Reducing the intake of purine-rich foods and sugary drinks.


✔ Medications

  • Some medications can:
  • Lower uric acid production
  • Increase uric acid excretion
  • In some cases, a doctor may adjust or replace medications that contribute to elevated uric acid levels (3).


✔ Maintaining a Healthy Weight

  • Losing excess weight can help regulate uric acid levels and reduce the risk of complications (3).


✔ Lifestyle Adjustments

  • Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Avoiding alcohol


✔ Managing Underlying Health Conditions

  • Such as kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or high blood pressure (3).




Concerned About High Uric Acid Levels?

Schedule an appointment today at Al-Ahli Hospital for comprehensive testing, diagnosis, and a personalized treatment plan.



References