Hyperuricemia may sound like a scary medical term, but essentially, it means having too much uric acid in the blood. Even though you might think that it is harmless to start with, excess uric acid has the potential to cause several conditions, such as gout, kidney stones, and even heart disease. In this blog, we'll discuss everything you need to know about hyperuricemia, its symptoms, why hyperuricemia occurs, and possible hyperuricemia treatment options.
Uric acid is a waste product that your body creates when it breaks down purines, the naturally occurring substances found in your body, and some foods. Usually, uric acid dissolves in the blood, goes through the kidneys, and is eliminated by urine. But when your body makes more uric acid than it needs to or eliminates too little of it, amounts accumulate. That's when hyperuricemia occurs.
This condition doesn't always produce symptoms right away. In fact, most individuals with excess uric acid will never even feel a thing. But when it does cause issues, they aren't just painful issues, but are long-lasting issues as well.
If you can spot hyperuricemia symptoms early in life, then you can avoid long-term damage. Although most individuals are symptom-free for years, others will notice:
The most frequent hyperuricemia symptom is acute, intense joint pain, particularly in the big toe. Most frequently, this is caused by gout, a form of arthritis caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals in joints.
Redness and swelling of the joint may be accompanied by warmth to the touch. This can be confused with other forms of arthritis, and proper diagnosis is therefore crucial.
Hyperuricemia can lead to the development of kidney stones. This can then advance to flank pain, hematuria, or recurrent urinary tract infections.
Individuals experience persistent weakness or fatigue with elevated uric acid levels, particularly if they have an accompanying inflammation.
A low-grade fever is present in joint inflammation in patients with acute attacks of gout.
Knowledge of the causes of hyperuricemia is relevant to prevention and treatment. Here are some of the common hyperuricemia causes:
Excessive intake of purines can raise the uric acid level. Red meat, organ meats, shellfish, anchovies, and sardines (certain fish) are especially to blame. Soft drinks and beer, and alcoholic drinks in general can also play a role.
Being overweight raises the level of uric acid production and lowers the efficiency of your body in removing it. Thus, obesity is a significant risk factor.
Genetic predisposition to gout or elevated levels of uric acid increases your likelihood of developing hyperuricemia.
Kidney disease, hypothyroidism, and some cancers can impair the efficiency of your body in metabolising uric acid.
Certain diuretics (for high blood pressure), low-dose aspirin, and some chemotherapy agents can increase uric acid levels.
Inadequate fluid intake disables the kidneys' capacity to eliminate uric acid, leading to its accumulation in the blood.
You should be tested for uric acid levels if:
A simple blood test called a uric acid test can detect hyperuricemia. A urine test, in certain cases, is also recommended to examine how effectively your body is flushing out uric acid.
Luckily, hyperuricemia treatment is extremely effective when done early and consistently. Treatment often involves lifestyle modifications coupled with medication, if required.
This is usually the initial treatment for hyperuricemia:
If lifestyle modifications are not effective, doctors may recommend:
Regular monitoring with laboratory tests for ongoing uric acid level checks is essential. Your physician will adjust your treatment according to the test results and symptoms.
Hyperuricemia can be managed and, in most cases, can be reversed with good management. Early identification, change of lifestyle, and medication (if indicated) can maintain uric acid at a normal level. It's a chronic condition that has to be monitored continuously, though. The goal is not just to bring levels down temporarily, but to prevent complications like gout, kidney stones, and joint damage in the long run.
Ignoring high uric acid levels can lead to:
Hyperuricemia may not grab headlines like diabetes or heart disease, but its impact on your long-term health can be just as serious. Recognising hyperuricemia symptoms, understanding hyperuricemia causes, and knowing the available hyperuricemia treatment options can make all the difference. Whether you’re trying to prevent complications or manage an existing diagnosis, taking action early is key. Talk to your doctor, get tested, and start building habits that support healthy uric acid levels. Your joints and kidneys will thank you.
If you want to get your uric acid levels checked, then book a Uric Acid Test with Pathkind and take control of your health today!