Uric acid is formed when the body breaks down purines, substances naturally present in the body and some foods. Most uric acid dissolves in the blood, is filtered by the kidneys, and excreted through urine. Uric acid levels can increase without causing joint pain or other clear symptoms.

Impact on bones and joints

According to the Times of India, prolonged elevated uric acid can lead to the deposition of urate crystals in joints and surrounding tissues, often before a typical gout attack manifests. Over time, this crystal accumulation can damage joints, leading to stiffness, swelling, or restricted movement. Consequently, the absence of current joint pain does not preclude the ongoing process of urate deposition.

Increased risk of high blood pressure

High uric acid levels are frequently associated with hypertension, a connection potentially stemming from uric acid's impact on blood vessel and kidney function.

When blood vessels struggle to dilate and kidneys have difficulty regulating salt and water, internal vascular pressure rises, leading to hypertension. High blood pressure often develops silently, without necessarily causing headaches or dizziness. Many individuals remain asymptomatic until their blood pressure is measured during a health check-up. Therefore, those with elevated uric acid should proactively monitor their blood pressure, rather than waiting for symptoms to emerge.

High uric acid levels can increase the risk of high blood pressure. *Photo: Quynh Tran*

Impact on blood vessels and heart function

Elevated uric acid can heighten oxidative stress and impair the endothelium, the crucial cell layer lining blood vessel walls. A healthy endothelium ensures proper blood vessel contraction and dilation, maintaining stable blood flow.

When this function declines, the ability of blood vessels to dilate is compromised. Vessels become less flexible, fostering the development of cardiovascular issues. These changes often occur without causing pain or clear symptoms that patients can readily perceive.

This implies that an individual with elevated uric acid levels may feel normal, even as vascular risk factors begin to emerge, according to Very Well Health.

Promotes inflammation

When blood uric acid levels remain elevated over time, urate crystals can form and deposit, particularly within the joints. The immune system perceives these crystals as foreign bodies, triggering an inflammatory response. This process results in painful, swollen, hot, and red joints, commonly affecting the big toe, ankles, or knees. If high uric acid persists, recurrent inflammatory episodes can damage joint structures and lead to the formation of tophi, which are hard lumps or nodules appearing under the skin and around joints.

Le Nguyen (Compiled)