Does High Uric Acid Bother You?

Uric acid is a byproduct of protein breakdown in food. It goes through the kidneys and exits our body when we pass urine.

But when the body produces more uric acid than usual, or the kidneys aren’t able to perform their job efficiently, the level of uric acid increases in our blood, leading to a condition known as hyperuricemia. 

Over time, this extra amount of urine forms needle-like crystals, which collect around the joints, causing pain and swelling. This condition is known as gout. The condition primarily affects the big toe, ankle, foot, hand, elbow and wrist. 

Gout can affect anyone, but men are more likely to be affected than women, as males have higher levels of uric acid throughout their life.

An episode of gout is called a gout attack, which occurs suddenly and can stay for a week or two. 

Symptoms

• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Intense pain
• Warmth in joints
• Tenderness

Risk Factors 

• Obesity
• Overweight
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Hypertension
• Family history of gout
• Congestive heart failure
• Excess intake of alcohol and animal protein
• Smoking

Complications

• A gout attack experience is different for everyone. Over time, joints' inflammation worsens and can damage the bones and cartilage. 
• The crystals also start building up in the soft tissues and develop lumps called tophi, which primarily affect elbows, fingers, hands and ears.
• The high uric acid level in the blood can also affect the liver, and in some cases, it even leads to gout kidney, kidney stones, and kidney failure.

Diagnosis

The doctor begins the diagnosis by asking about your symptoms. Then, the doctor moves to the next step, i.e., physical examination, in which the doctor inspects the affected joint(s) to look for warmth, swelling and redness.

The doctor may recommend a blood test, X-ray or ultrasound to evaluate your condition. He may also advise you for aspiration, a process in which fluid is taken from the affected portion using a needle, which is then analysed under the microscope for uric acid crystals.

Treatment

The doctor may prescribe you non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine or corticosteroids to lessen the pain and swelling. He may also prescribe you some medications to lower uric acid levels in the body and prevent or reduce gout attacks.

Prevention

• Take a low-protein diet.
• Limit or stop alcohol intake.
• Refrain from animal protein.
• Exercise regularly to stay healthy.
• Drink plenty of water so your kidneys can perform efficiently.
• Avoid medications that can increase the uric acid level in the body.

Takeaway!

A high uric acid level in the body is not a good sign for you. It can accumulate in joints and cause pain and swelling. Sometimes, it even flares up to other body parts, leading to more complications. Timely diagnosis and prevention can help you. If you experience the symptoms mentioned above, consult a doctor immediately.

Also, Read: Muscle Strain- What is it and how does it occur?