What is Uric Acid?

Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines, which are substances found in foods like red meat, shellfish, and alcohol, as well as in human cells. Uric acid typically dissolves in the blood, filtered by the kidneys, and excreted through urine. However, excess uric acid can lead to hyperuricemia, which may cause crystal formation and lead to health complications like gout or kidney stones.

Symptoms of High Uric Acid (Hyperuricemia):

1. Gout:

• Sudden and severe joint pain, often in the big toe.
• Swollen, red, warm, and tender joints.
• Pain usually intensifies at night or early morning.
• Recurrent gout attacks, if left untreated.

1. Kidney Stones:

• Sharp pain in the abdomen or back.
• Blood in urine.
• Painful urination.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Frequent urination or urge to urinate.

1. Other Symptoms:

• Fatigue.
• Unexplained joint stiffness or discomfort.

Prevention of High Uric Acid:

1. Dietary Changes:

• Limit purine-rich foods: Avoid red meat, organ meats (liver, kidney), shellfish, and certain fish (sardines, anchovies).
• Reduce alcohol intake: Alcohol, particularly beer, increases uric acid levels.
• Limit sugary drinks: Fructose-sweetened beverages can elevate uric acid production.
• Increase low-purine foods: Focus on low-fat dairy, vegetables, whole grains, and fruit.

1. Stay Hydrated:

• Drink plenty of water to help flush uric acid through the kidneys and reduce the risk of kidney stones.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight:

• Obesity increases the risk of high uric acid levels. Weight management through diet and exercise can reduce uric acid production.

1. Manage Chronic Conditions:

• Controlling conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease can help reduce uric acid levels.

Treatment and Cure:

1. Medications:

• Allopurinol: Reduces uric acid production.
• Febuxostat: Also reduces uric acid production, particularly for those allergic to allopurinol.
• Probenecid: Helps the kidneys remove uric acid more effectively.
• Colchicine: Used to manage acute gout attacks and prevent future flare-ups.
• NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): Like ibuprofen to reduce inflammation and pain during gout attacks.

1. Lifestyle Modifications:

• Follow a balanced, low-purine diet.
• Maintain a consistent exercise routine.
• Limit alcohol, especially beer, and avoid sugary soft drinks.

1. Natural Remedies:

• Cherries or cherry juice: Some studies suggest cherries can help reduce uric acid and prevent gout attacks.
• Vitamin C supplements: May help lower uric acid levels, but consult a healthcare provider for proper dosage.

With consistent management through diet, hydration, medications, and lifestyle changes, uric acid levels can be controlled, reducing the risk of gout, kidney stones, and associated symptoms.