Elevated uric acid levels occur when there is too much uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product that is produced by the body when it breaks down purines, which are found in many foods. Normally, the kidneys remove uric acid from the body.

However, when there is too much uric acid or the kidneys cannot remove it efficiently, it can build up in the body and cause health problems.

Symptoms of elevated uric acid levels

Many people with elevated uric acid levels do not experience any symptoms. However, in some cases, elevated uric acid levels can lead to a condition called gout.

Gout is a type of arthritis that can cause severe pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. The most commonly affected joint is the big toe, but gout can also affect the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers.

Causes of elevated uric acid levels

There are several factors that can lead to elevated uric acid levels, including:.

Diet high in purines: Foods that are high in purines, such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol, can cause uric acid levels to rise.
Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk of elevated uric acid levels, as well as gout.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, hypothyroidism, and psoriasis, can lead to elevated uric acid levels.
Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics and low-dose aspirin, can lead to elevated uric acid levels.

Diagnosis of elevated uric acid levels

Elevated uric acid levels can be detected through a blood test. A doctor may order a blood test if they suspect that a patient has elevated uric acid levels or if the patient has a history of gout or kidney stones.

If the blood test shows elevated uric acid levels, the doctor may order additional tests, such as a joint fluid analysis, to diagnose gout.

Treatment of elevated uric acid levels

The treatment of elevated uric acid levels depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, lifestyle changes, such as adopting a low-purine diet and losing weight, may be enough to lower uric acid levels.

In other cases, medications may be necessary.

Medications used to treat elevated uric acid levels and gout include:.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Colchicine
Corticosteroids
Xanthine oxidase inhibitors (XOIs), such as allopurinol and febuxostat, which reduce the production of uric acid
Uricosuric drugs, such as probenecid, which increase the excretion of uric acid

Prevention of elevated uric acid levels

There are several measures that can be taken to prevent elevated uric acid levels, such as:.

Adopting a low-purine diet: Limiting the intake of high-purine foods, such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol, can help prevent elevated uric acid levels.
Losing weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent elevated uric acid levels and gout.
Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush uric acid from the body.
Avoiding dehydration: Dehydration can lead to elevated uric acid levels, so it is important to avoid dehydration by drinking water and avoiding alcohol and sugary drinks.
Treating medical conditions: Treating underlying medical conditions, such as kidney disease and hypothyroidism, can help prevent elevated uric acid levels.

Complications of elevated uric acid levels

If left untreated, elevated uric acid levels can lead to serious health problems, such as:.

Gout: Elevated uric acid levels can cause gout, which can lead to joint damage and disability if left untreated.
Kidney stones: Uric acid can build up in the kidneys and form kidney stones, which can cause severe pain and other complications.
Chronic kidney disease: Untreated gout and kidney stones can lead to chronic kidney disease.

Conclusion

Elevated uric acid levels can lead to gout, kidney stones, and other serious health problems if left untreated. However, the condition can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications.

It is important to maintain a healthy weight, adopt a low-purine diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid dehydration to prevent elevated uric acid levels. If you suspect that you have elevated uric acid levels or gout, speak with your doctor about treatment options.