High uric acid occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or cannot eliminate it effectively. This can lead to several health problems, including joint pain, inflammation, and kidney issues. High uric acid is often linked to conditions such as gout, kidney disease, obesity, and diabetes. It can also be associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, and metabolic syndrome.

Here are 10 common medical conditions that cause high uric acid:

Gout

Gout is one of the most well-known conditions associated with high uric acid. It causes sudden, severe joint pain, accompanied by redness and swelling, often in the big toe. When uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, they cause inflammation and intense discomfort.

Main symptoms: severe joint pain, redness, swelling, especially in the feet and hands.

Kidney disease

The kidneys play a vital role in removing uric acid from the body. When kidney function declines due to chronic kidney disease or other disorders, uric acid accumulates in the blood. This can worsen kidney disease and contribute to other complications.

Kidney patient on dialysis at Thong Nhat Hospital, TP HCM, 3/2024. Photo: Phung Tien

Kidney patient on dialysis at Thong Nhat Hospital, TP HCM, 3/2024. Photo: Phung Tien

Obesity

Excess body weight increases uric acid production and reduces the kidneys' ability to clear it. Obese individuals have a higher risk of developing hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels in the blood) and related complications like gout.

Diabetes

People with type 2 diabetes often have higher uric acid levels due to insulin resistance affecting kidney function. This increases their risk of gout and kidney damage.

High blood pressure

High blood pressure can impair kidney function, leading to decreased uric acid excretion and increased blood levels. High uric acid is also linked to poorer blood pressure control.

Heart disease and cardiovascular risks

High uric acid is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, including heart attacks and strokes. It can contribute to inflammation and damage to blood vessels.

Kidney stones

High uric acid levels can lead to the formation of kidney stones, causing severe pain and urinary problems.

Metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome includes conditions like high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels. These factors increase the risk of high uric acid and gout.

Hypothyroidism

An underactive thyroid can slow metabolism and impair kidney function, leading to higher uric acid levels.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition, is linked to increased uric acid levels, possibly due to increased cell turnover and inflammation.

Poor diet, dehydration, and certain medications can increase uric acid levels. Managing high uric acid through lifestyle changes and medical care is essential to reduce the risk of complications and improve overall health.

My Y (Times of India)