Hyperuricemia Symptoms & Treatment | SPARSH Hospital

Published in : Nephrology | July 10, 2025 |

Hyperuricemia: What is it, Symptoms, and Treatment

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Hyperuricemia refers to an abnormally high level of uric acid in the blood. Although this condition may not have prominent symptoms, it can lead to serious health problems like gout, kidney stones, and even complications related to metabolic syndrome. The best way to treat this health condition is to detect it early and take active steps toward reducing uric acid. Read ahead to learn how to do this. But before that, let’s understand this health condition.

What is Hyperuricemia?

As mentioned before, hyperuricemia is a condition in which the uric acid concentration in the bloodstream becomes too high. Uric acid is a waste product created when the body breaks down substances called purines, which are found naturally in many foods and drinks.

Normally, your kidneys filter out uric acid, removing it through urine. However, when the kidneys can’t keep up, either because they are not working properly or because your body produces too much uric acid, the uric acid level also rises, leading to health complications.

What Causes Uric Acid to Build Up?

Understanding what causes uric acid to accumulate helps you take steps to prevent or manage hyperuricemia. Here are the main causes:

Diet High in Purines

Purines are chemicals found in many foods, such as red meat, organ meats (liver, kidneys), shellfish, sardines, and alcoholic beverages. When these purines break down, uric acid forms as a byproduct. Consuming excessive purine-rich foods can overload your system.

Kidney Function Issues

If your kidneys are not filtering uric acid efficiently, it remains in your blood. Conditions like chronic kidney disease or other kidney dysfunctions can cause this.

Metabolic Syndrome

Hyperuricemia often occurs alongside metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels. These metabolic issues can affect how the body processes uric acid.

Genetic and Other Medical Conditions

Sometimes, genetic factors or diseases affecting purine metabolism can increase uric acid production. Certain medications and dehydration also contribute.

Hyperuricemia Symptoms: What to Watch For

Interestingly, hyperuricemia symptoms don’t usually appear on their own. Most people with high uric acid don’t feel any different until complications arise. Here’s what might happen:

Gout

The most common problem caused by hyperuricemia is gout, a type of arthritis characterised by sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints. Gout attacks often occur in the big toe but can affect other joints as well.

Gout pain can develop quickly, worsening over 8 to 12 hours, sometimes lasting days or weeks. It may return in episodes triggered by injury, illness, or dietary choices.

Kidney Stones

When uric acid forms crystals in the kidneys, kidney stones can develop. These stones cause intense lower back or abdominal pain, blood in the urine, nausea, fever, and sometimes a foul smell in the urine. Many kidney stones pass unnoticed if small, but larger stones require medical attention.

How to Reduce Uric Acid Levels: Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

If you are wondering how to reduce uric acid, the good news is that lifestyle changes can significantly help manage hyperuricemia and prevent complications. However, we suggest you visit a nephrologist before making any changes.

Make Dietary Changes

Reducing the intake of high-purine foods is key. Avoid or limit:

  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Bacon and organ meats like liver and kidneys
  • Certain seafood, such as sardines, shellfish, and mussels

Instead, focus on

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains
  • Low-fat dairy products
  • Lean proteins like poultry and nuts
  • Drinking plenty of water helps the kidneys flush out uric acid

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is linked to higher uric acid levels and metabolic syndrome. Losing excess weight gradually through a balanced diet and regular exercise reduces uric acid and the risk of gout.

Stay Hydrated

Adequate fluid intake assists your kidneys in clearing uric acid effectively.

Hyperuricemia Treatment: When to See a Doctor

If you have high uric acid or symptoms of gout or kidney stones, high uric acid treatment might require more than lifestyle changes.

Why Consult a Nephrologist?

Hyperuricemia is closely tied to kidney health. Therefore, if you live in Bangalore and need expert care, visiting a Nephrology Hospital or consulting a Nephrologist can provide specialised diagnosis and treatment.

Nephrologists focus on kidney diseases and can:

  • Evaluate kidney function
  • Manage uric acid levels medically
  • Monitor and treat related conditions like kidney stones or chronic kidney disease
  • Help prevent long-term kidney damage through personalised care

Conclusion

Hyperuricemia, while often silent in its early stages, can lead to significant health issues like gout and kidney stones if left unmanaged. Recognising the causes and adopting healthier lifestyle habits can effectively lower uric acid levels. For those experiencing symptoms or with underlying kidney concerns, visiting a specialist can make a crucial difference. In the end, taking early action and receiving proper care helps protect your kidneys and improves your overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to treat high uric acid?

The most effective treatment combines medication and lifestyle changes.

How can I quickly lower uric acid levels?

You can change your diet and wait a few weeks for visible changes. Consult your family doctor or a specialist to know effective ways to reduce uric acid levels.

Which foods should be avoided with hyperuricemia?

Avoid purine-rich foods such as organ meats (liver, kidney), certain seafood (anchovies, sardines), and processed meats. Limit alcohol, especially beer, and sugary beverages like soda and high-fructose corn syrup.

What’s the fastest method to flush out uric acid?

Drinking plenty of water is the quickest way. Staying well-hydrated helps the kidneys eliminate uric acid more efficiently and lowers the risk of uric acid kidney stones.

Can I test my uric acid levels at home?

No, you cannot get your uric acid levels checked at home. You would need to visit a hospital for the test.



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