Your body naturally produces uric acid. It develops when the body breaks down a chemical called purine, which is present in some foods like alcohol, seafood, and red meat. Uric acid typically dissolves in your blood, travels through your kidneys, and then exits your body as urine. However, uric acid accumulates when your body produces too much of it or is unable to eliminate it effectively. Problems begin at this point.
Many people are unaware that they have elevated uric acid until they experience kidney stones or gout. However, your body frequently alerts you to problems before they worsen. You can take action and prevent more serious health problems later if you learn to spot the early warning signs.
Why Does Uric Acid Increase?
It’s useful to know why uric acid levels rise in the first place before discussing the symptoms. Typical explanations include:
- Consuming excessive amounts of foods high in purines, such as organ meats, shellfish, and red meat
- Overindulging in sugary drinks or alcohol
- Not getting enough water
- Being obese or overweight
- Experiencing renal issues
- Using certain drugs, such as diuretics
- A family history of gout or elevated uric acid
Hyperuricemia, which is simply defined as having uric acid levels that are higher than normal, can result from any of these factors.
Early Signs of Increased Uric Acid
Symptoms of high uric acid frequently take time to manifest. This is the reason it was initially referred to as a “silent” problem. However, if you listen carefully, your body might exhibit symptoms such as:
- Mild stiffness or pain in the joints
Particularly in the big toe, ankle, or knee, you might experience stiffness or a dull ache in your joints. This frequently comes and goes. Most people overlook it, assuming it’s simply the result of excessive walking or prolonged standing.
- Weakness or Fatigue
Increased uric acid can occasionally be associated with fatigue that has no apparent cause. You might feel exhausted because your body is exerting a lot of effort to deal with the excess uric acid.
- Pain in the Body Without Strain
It could be worthwhile to check your uric acid levels if you have been experiencing body aches without engaging in any physical activity or exercise.
Clear Physical Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Your body responds when uric acid begins to crystallize in your tissues or joints. At this point, the symptoms become more apparent:
- Joint Swelling and Redness
Usually, the big toe is impacted first. It may become very painful, swell, and turn red. Your fingers, elbows, or knees may also experience this. The joint feels like it’s on fire, and the pain usually begins at night.
- Sharp, Abrupt Joint Pain (Gout Attack)
A gout attack is among the most typical symptoms of elevated uric acid. The pain is intense, abrupt, and frequently wakes you up.
- Restricted Mobility
It becomes challenging to move the afflicted joint due to the pain and swelling. It could be difficult for you to walk or use your hand because you feel stiff.
Other Symptoms That May Be Related
- Symptoms of kidney stones
Kidney stones can result from too much uric acid crystallizing in the kidneys. Among the indicators are:
A sharp pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Urinary pain
- Urine with blood in it
- Vomiting or feeling queasy
- Formation of Tophi
High uric acid over time can cause tophi, which are tiny lumps beneath the skin. These typically show up near joints like the toes, fingers, or elbows. Although they can become sore and possibly burst, they are not always painful at first.
- Itching of the Skin
When uric acid builds up around joints, some people get flaky or itchy skin.
How Is High Uric Acid Diagnosed?
It’s critical to get tested if you experience any of these symptoms. Your body’s serum uric acid level can be determined with a straightforward blood test. The typical range is:
3.4 to 7.0 mg/dL for men
2.4 to 6.0 mg/dL for females
To find out how much uric acid your body is eliminating, your doctor might also suggest a urine test. If kidney stones or joint damage are suspected, imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds may be used.
Why Ignoring These Signs Can Be Risky
Although elevated uric acid might not seem like much, if it is not treated, it can result in:
- Recurring bouts of gout
- Joint deformity or damage
- Persistent discomfort
- Kidney disease or kidney stones
- High blood pressure and heart issues (connected by inflammation)
For this reason, it’s critical to recognize the warning signs early and take action to control your health.
What To Do If You Notice the Signs
Don’t disregard a possible high uric acid level. What you can do is as follows:
- See a physician for an accurate diagnosis.
- Have your urine and blood examined.
- Modify your diet by consuming fewer foods high in purines.
- Increase your water intake to aid in the removal of uric acid.
- Limit sugary drinks and alcohol.
- Reduce your weight if necessary.
- Take medications as directed by your physician.
To lower their uric acid levels, some people may require drugs like febuxostat or allopurinol. Depending on your condition, your doctor will give you advice.
Tips To Prevent Uric Acid Buildup
Ways to Avoid the Buildup of Uric Acid
It’s wise to take precautions even if you don’t yet exhibit any symptoms:
- Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables.
- Limit your intake of seafood and red meat.
- Refuse alcohol and soft drinks.
- Regularly work out
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Monitor your uric acid levels on a regular basis.
Conclusion
Although your body naturally produces uric acid, too much of it can have detrimental effects on your health. The good news is that your body starts to tell you. It’s time to take notice if you experience persistent joint pain, exhaustion, or swelling.
You can prevent excruciating flare-ups and long-term harm by recognizing the symptoms of elevated uric acid early. You can maintain control over your uric acid levels and lead a pain-free, healthy life with minor lifestyle adjustments and the appropriate medical attention.