Uric acid, a waste product formed when the body breaks down purines (found naturally in the body and various foods), is primarily filtered from the blood by the kidneys and excreted through urine. A healthy blood uric acid level is below 6,5 mg/dL (equivalent to under 380 µmol/L). When the body produces excessive uric acid or the kidneys fail to excrete it efficiently, blood levels increase, impacting numerous bodily functions.

Reducing the risk of gout

According to Health Shots, gout is a form of arthritis caused by elevated blood uric acid levels, leading to the formation and deposition of urate crystals in the joints. These crystals trigger inflammation, resulting in sudden, severe joint pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. While the big toe is commonly affected, gout can also impact ankles, knees, or other joints.

Persistently high uric acid levels can lead to frequent, prolonged gout attacks and significant joint damage. Over many years, urate crystals may accumulate into tophi around the joints, causing deformation and restricting movement.

Supporting kidney function protection

Elevated blood uric acid levels compel the kidneys to work harder to eliminate the substance. If uric acid crystallizes within the urinary tract, it can lead to kidney stone formation. Patients might experience symptoms such as flank pain, painful urination, blood in the urine, or intense colicky pain as stones pass.

Beyond stone formation, prolonged high uric acid can damage kidney tissues, impair filtering function, and elevate the risk of chronic kidney disease. For those already diagnosed with kidney disease, uric acid control is vital to prevent progression.

A balanced diet can help manage uric acid. *Photo: Bui Thuy*

Supporting blood pressure control, protecting cardiovascular health

Elevated uric acid levels also impact blood vessel walls, reducing their ability to dilate and contributing to hypertension. Furthermore, uric acid affects kidney function, disrupting blood pressure regulation. Maintaining appropriate uric acid levels, alongside a healthy diet, reduced salt intake, regular exercise, and weight management, can effectively support blood pressure control.

Beyond its effects on joints and kidneys, elevated uric acid is also linked to heart health. Individuals with high uric acid levels often face an increased risk of coronary artery disease, heart failure, or stroke.

This is partly because high uric acid often co-occurs with metabolic disorders such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, and obesity. Additionally, chronic inflammation resulting from elevated uric acid can negatively impact blood vessels.

Elevated uric acid often develops silently, with many individuals only discovering it after their first gout attack or a kidney stone diagnosis during a routine health check-up. Those with a history of gout, who are overweight, or have hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease should regularly monitor their uric acid levels for early detection of any abnormalities.

Uric acid management primarily starts with lifestyle adjustments. Individuals with elevated levels should limit purine-rich foods, including organ meats, red meat, certain seafood, and alcoholic beverages, particularly beer. Conversely, they should increase their intake of green vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, while selecting appropriate protein sources.

Daily adequate water intake helps kidneys excrete uric acid more efficiently, reducing kidney stone risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep also contribute to improved metabolism and support uric acid management.

If persistently high uric acid levels lead to gout, kidney stones, or kidney damage, patients should seek specialist consultation for appropriate treatment. Those on uric acid-lowering medication must adhere to their doctor's prescriptions, combining them with lifestyle modifications for lasting effectiveness.

Le Nguyen (Compiled)