Uric acid is a natural waste product created when the body breaks down purines, found in certain foods and drinks. Purines typically dissolve in the blood, are filtered by the kidneys, and excreted in urine. However, excessively high uric acid levels can lead to serious health issues, known as hyperuricemia. Hyperuricemia, or high uric acid concentration in the body, can cause inflammation and pain. Over time, it risks damaging other body parts. Here are 5 common health conditions linked to high uric acid levels.
Gout
Gout is a common health issue caused by high uric acid. It occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in joints, causing sudden, intense pain, swelling, and redness. This swelling typically affects the big toe but can also occur in the hands. If left untreated, gout can last for several days or even weeks. While more common in men, women with high uric acid are also at increased risk.
Common causes of gout include a diet high in purines, alcohol consumption, and obesity. Untreated, recurring gout attacks can cause permanent joint damage over time. Lowering uric acid with medication, hydration, and a balanced diet can help prevent gout flare-ups and joint damage. People with gout should also reduce their intake of red meat, shellfish, and sugary drinks as these can trigger painful episodes.
Kidney stones
High uric acid levels can also lead to kidney stones. These are hard crystals that form in the kidneys when excess uric acid isn't properly eliminated from the body. Symptoms of kidney stones include severe back or flank pain, blood in the urine, and frequent urination. If not detected and treated early, kidney stones can block urine flow, cause infections, and even lead to long-term kidney problems.
To prevent kidney stones, individuals should drink plenty of water, reduce purine intake by avoiding meat, alcohol, and sugary drinks, and take medication as prescribed by a doctor to manage uric acid levels.
Chronic kidney disease
Excess uric acid not only leads to kidney stones but over time can damage kidney tissue, increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Kidneys filter waste from the blood and excrete it in urine. However, when kidneys malfunction, toxins, including uric acid, gradually accumulate in the blood. Chronic kidney disease may have few initial symptoms but can cause high blood pressure, fatigue, and even kidney failure in severe cases.
Early management of uric acid through lifestyle changes, exercise, hydration, and regular health checkups is crucial for long-term kidney health.
High blood pressure
High uric acid is often linked to high blood pressure, especially in younger people. Uric acid can stiffen blood vessels, increase salt sensitivity, and trigger inflammation, all of which raise blood pressure. Over time, this increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Managing blood pressure through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and reduced salt intake can make a significant difference in overall cardiovascular health.
Type 2 diabetes
Insulin resistance, a key factor in type 2 diabetes, is also linked to high uric acid. Insulin resistance prevents the body from effectively using glucose for energy, resulting in higher blood sugar levels.
While uric acid is not the sole cause of diabetes, it's a risk factor that shouldn't be ignored. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including weight management, physical activity, and balanced nutrition, can reduce the risk of both high uric acid and diabetes.
Bao Bao (Theo Healthline, Times of India)
