Uric acid is a waste product that is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are found in certain foods and in the body's cells. Normally, the body gets rid of uric acid through the kidneys and urine, but if there is too much uric acid in the body, it can lead to a condition called hyperuricemia.
The complications of hyperuricemia and high levels of uric acid in the blood can include:
Gout: A type of arthritis caused by the build-up of uric acid crystals in the joints, resulting in severe pain, swelling, and inflammation.
Kidney stones: High levels of uric acid in the urine can cause the formation of kidney stones, which can be painful and require medical treatment.
Kidney disease: Chronic hyperuricemia can cause damage to the kidneys and lead to kidney disease.
Hypertension: Studies have found that high levels of uric acid are associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension (high blood pressure).
Cardiovascular disease: Hyperuricemia has been linked to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack and stroke.
Metabolic syndrome: Hyperuricemia has been associated with an increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which is a cluster of conditions that includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
Type 2 diabetes: High levels of uric acid have been linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
It's important to manage and control high levels of uric acid in the blood to prevent these complications. This can be done through lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol and sugary drinks. In some cases, medication may be needed to help lower uric acid levels.
Author: Sushanta Kumar Ghosh, Physiotherapy Specialist, DIU Medical Center
