High uric acid levels in the body can be the root cause of several health problems, including cardiovascular disease. Uric acid is produced in the body when purines are broken down, a natural compound found in many foods.

Excessive levels of uric acid in the body can lead to increased risk of heart disease.

Uric Acid and Cardiovascular Disease

Uric acid levels in the body have been found to be associated with several risk factors of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and insulin resistance.

High uric acid levels have also been linked to higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.

One of the reasons for the link between uric acid and heart disease is inflammation.

Excessive amounts of uric acid can lead to inflammation, which damages the tissues and causes the artery walls to thicken, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

How Does Uric Acid Affect the Heart?

Uric acid affects the heart in several ways, including:.

Increased blood pressure: High uric acid levels can lead to hypertension, which is a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
Increased risk of heart attack: Uric acid crystals can cause inflammation in the blood vessels around the heart, leading to increased risk of heart attack.
Increased risk of heart failure: High uric acid levels are associated with increased risk of congestive heart failure, a condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.

Symptoms of High Uric Acid Levels

High uric acid levels in the body may not always cause symptoms, but some people may experience:.

Joint pain and swelling
Gout attacks – a form of arthritis that commonly affects the big toe
Tiredness and fatigue

Causes of High Uric Acid Levels

Uric acid levels can be affected by several factors, including:.

Diet – Consuming a diet high in purine-rich foods can lead to increased uric acid levels. These foods include seafood, red meat, and foods high in fructose.
Genetics – Some people may be more prone to gout and high uric acid levels because of their genes.
Kidney disease – The kidneys are responsible for filtering uric acid out of the body. If they are not functioning correctly, uric acid levels can increase.

Treatment for High Uric Acid Levels

Treatment for high uric acid levels may include:.

Lifestyle changes: Adopting a low-purine diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing alcohol intake can help lower uric acid levels.
Medications: Medications that reduce uric acid levels, such as allopurinol and febuxostat, may be prescribed in some cases.
Treatment of underlying conditions: If an underlying condition, such as kidney disease or diabetes, is causing high uric acid levels, treating that condition may also help in lowering uric acid levels.

Prevention of High Uric Acid Levels and Cardiovascular Disease

Prevention of high uric acid levels and cardiovascular disease can include:.

Maintaining a healthy weight
Adopting a low-purine diet
Reducing alcohol intake
Exercising regularly
Managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease

Conclusion

High uric acid levels in the body can be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Reducing uric acid levels through lifestyle changes and appropriate medical treatment can help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.