Uric Acid: Symptoms, Causes &Treatment

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What is Uric Acid? - Causes, Treatment and Symptoms

Uric acid is present in foods and beverages high in purines, such as red meat, liver, and alcoholic drinks, especially beer. This waste substance, which is derived from the breakdown of purine-rich foods, dissolves in the bloodstream and is eliminated through urine. However, certain underlying conditions or factors can result in the accumulation of uric acid as crystals in the bones, joints, or kidneys, potentially leading to kidney stones.

Gender	Normal Range of Uric Acid Levels
Male	2.5-7.0 mg/dl
Female	1.5-6.0 mg/dl

uric-acid-levels

Causes of High Uric Acid

While the exact cause is unknown, high uric acid levels can be associated with certain conditions that impair the balance of uric acid production & excretion.

Genetic conditions
Overweight or obesity.
Excessive consumption of alcohol
Consuming purine-rich foods such as red meat
Dehydration or drinking an inadequate amount of water.
Overuse of certain drugs, such as diuretics.
Also, certain conditions, such as gout and kidney stones, are associated with high uric acid levels.

Both men and women exhibit similar symptoms related to elevated uric acid levels. However, women, particularly during their post-menopausal stage, may present with symptoms that could be mistaken for hormonal changes. Consequently, urinary tract infections and swelling in the ankles and feet are frequently observed in females when the underlying cause is kidney stones.

When should I consult the doctor?
Early diagnosis can prevent serious complications or severe gouty attacks due to high uric acid levels; therefore, if you notice any of the above symptoms, such as severe low back pain and noticeable joint swelling

Don’t wait for signs to grow severe. Consult our Nephrology Specialists today

Treatments for High Uric Acid

Treatment for high uric acid levels is a combination of lifestyle changes and the use of certain prescribed medications, such as allopurinol.

How to Reduce High Uric Acid Levels Naturally?
Include the following dietary & lifestyle changes to reduce uric acid without medication:

Drink an adequate amount of water to flush out uric acid crystals
Avoid consumption of alcohol & sweet fruit juices
Add low-fat dairy products to your diet plan
Cherries are proven to reduce gouty attacks
Try consuming vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges
Maintain a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise

Have any questions or concerns about your health? We’re here to help! Call us at +918065906165 for expert advice and support.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uric Acid

Leafy vegetables (except spinach), along with carrots, cucumbers, & bell peppers, are the best foods that help individuals with high uric acid levels.

The simple blood test can be performed to measure the levels of uric acid in the blood; alternatively, a 24-hour urine test is also performed to detect the amount of uric acid excreted.

Uric acid levels > 6 mg/dl in women & 7 mg/dl in men are considered high uric acid levels; however, levels exceeding 8-9 mg/dl might be dangerous, leading to gouty attacks, kidney stones, or other serious complications.

While animal protein found in red meat contains high levels of purine, responsible for uric acid production, plant-based protein, rich legumes, beans, etc., and low-dairy fat are considered to be the safest foods that might not increase uric acid levels.

High uric levels or conditions associated with it can be well managed with medications in combination with lifestyle modifications, while there is no complete cure