Uric Acid Information

The human body is a magnificent biological machine, with each part needing to work in perfect concert with the others to bring optimum health. Nothing is left to chance, not even the waste products like uric acid. But if the delicate balance is disturbed, and too much uric acid remains in the system, it could be the sign of a systemic breakdown.

Facts

• Uric acid is a waste product produced when the body breaks down purines, which are substances found in certain foods. Meat products, particularly organ meats like liver and kidneys, are high in purines. The resulting uric acid enters the bloodstream, dissolves and is carried into the kidneys, where it is excreted in the urine.

Symptoms

• High uric acid levels in the blood, called hyperuricemia, can manifest itself in gout, a condition that causes severe pain and swelling in joints, especially the toes. While high uric acid levels don't always cause harm, if too much uric acid is produced or it isn't removed from the body quickly enough, it can be the sign of a serious health problem.

Causes

• Various health conditions and diseases can lead to uric acid building up in the blood. The list includes leukemia, Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, hypothyroidism and kidney failure.

  As mentioned earlier, diets rich in purines can lead to high uric acid, as will excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption. Taking too much niacin can cause levels to rise. Certain high blood pressure medications and immune-suppressing drugs trigger high uric acid. Even aspirin and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) can elevate levels.

  Genetics can also play a role, as can certain other conditions like obesity and psoriasis.

Identification

• High uric acid levels are typically found while evaluating other conditions. Doctors will order tests to check uric acid when treating patients for gout, diagnosing potential kidney failure, or when monitoring progress following chemotherapy or radiation. A simple blood test provides all the needed information. To guarantee accurate results, patients should fast four hours before the test.

  High uric acid levels aren't the only concern. If uric acid levels drop too low, it can signal exposure to toxins or the presence of certain liver and kidney diseases.

Treatment

• Dietary changes can lower uric acid levels in the blood. Eating a plant-based diet and limiting meat consumption will reduce purines and cut uric acid production. If diet changes alone don't solve the problem, doctors may order a medication regime to address the issue.