Uric acid is an issue that does not cross most people’s minds until a painful attack in the joint, which in turn causes daily activities to be a struggle. It is a by-product of what the body does when it breaks down purines, which are present in some foods and drinks. Usually the kidneys do a good job of filtering out the uric acid, and we get rid of it in our urine. But when we produce too much of it, or the kidneys can’t eliminate enough, that is when we see the levels of uric acid rise.
High levels of uric acid don’t always produce symptoms. In some people, it can go undetected for a long time. But when the crystals of urate begin to present in the joints and the urine, we see more serious issues developing.
Common Symptoms of High Uric Acid
One of the most common signs is sudden and very intense pain in the joints, which in most cases presents in the big toe. Also, the affected joint may get swollen, red, warm, and very tender to touch. At times, even the pressure of a bed sheet or a shoe may be too much during a gout attack.
Other possible symptoms include:
- Joint pain and difficulty moving in the affected area.
- Repeated episodes of severe joint pain
- Swelling and warmth around the joints
- Difficulty in walking or using the affected joint.
- Persistent discomfort in the joints
- Tophi, which are hard nodules formed by urate crystal deposits.
- Kidney stones that can present with severe pain in the back, side, or abdomen.
It is a fact that high uric acid levels do not, in and of themselves, indicate gout. Many people may have raised uric acid and never experience symptoms.
Which Factors Cause Uric Acid Levels to Rise?
Some factors that may cause high uric acid levels include: A diet high in purines, which includes certain meats and seafood, is an issue. Also, heavy alcohol use, not enough water in the system, being overweight, losing weight very quickly, and some medications also play a role.
Kidney issues are of great importance as the kidneys play a key role in the removal of uric acid from the body. Also, heredity and a family history of gout may play a role in developing the condition.
Early and Advanced Warning Signs
At early stages, gout may go unnoticed as it doesn’t present with symptoms. You may see some mild joint discomfort, stiffness, or tenderness, which in time may lead up to a full-scale gout attack.
Persistent in severity, repeat gout attacks, presence of tophi, joint damage, or uric acid-related kidney stones may develop. These issues shouldn’t be overlooked as they do affect mobility and overall quality of life.
How Is High Uric Acid Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider may order a blood test for uric acid. As per symptoms, some other tests that may be done include joint fluid, ultrasound, X-rays, or urine. A diagnosis is not to be based solely on symptoms, as there are other conditions that present with the same joint pain.
Managing Uric Acid Naturally
Small changes in how we live may greatly improve things. That which supports healthy uric acid levels includes staying well hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise and a balanced diet. Also include in this the limitation of large amounts of alcohol and the moderate intake of purine-rich foods.
Also, it is of great importance that you not write off joint pain to uric acid. If the issue is recurring, is very serious, or has swelling, fever, or kidney stone-related pain with it, see a health care provider.
For instance, many of us pay no attention to the warning signs early on, which in the end ends up being much more painful and recurring.
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