Published in : Nephrology | July 10, 2025 |
Medically Reviewed
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.
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.
Understanding what causes uric acid to accumulate helps you take steps to prevent or manage hyperuricemia. Here are the main causes:
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.
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.
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.
Sometimes, genetic factors or diseases affecting purine metabolism can increase uric acid production. Certain medications and dehydration also contribute.
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:
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.
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.
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.
Reducing the intake of high-purine foods is key. Avoid or limit:
Instead, focus on
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.
Adequate fluid intake assists your kidneys in clearing uric acid effectively.
If you have high uric acid or symptoms of gout or kidney stones, high uric acid treatment might require more than lifestyle changes.
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:
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.
The most effective treatment combines medication and lifestyle changes.
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.
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.
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.
No, you cannot get your uric acid levels checked at home. You would need to visit a hospital for the test.
Categories: Nephrology
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