5 Warning Signs of High Uric Acid: Act Fast Before It Leads to Joint Damage
Understanding Hyperuricemia, Its Symptoms, and Dietary Adjustments to Reduce Uric Acid Levels
Uric acid is a waste substance found in the body. It is formed when the body breaks down purines. Purines are substances found in certain foods and tissues. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted from the body through urine. Sometimes the body makes too much uric acid or the kidneys are unable to excrete it in sufficient quantities.
When uric acid starts accumulating in the blood, it is called hyperuricemia. Later it collects in the joints and takes the form of small stones, which increases the risk of gout and kidney stones.
What are the symptoms of increased uric acid? When uric acid increases, you may feel symptoms like joint pain, swelling in the joints and redness of the joints, although many symptoms of increased uric acid can also be seen in the urine.
Cloudy or foamy urine
According to the National Kidney Foundation (ref), a common symptom of uric acid in the urine is cloudy or foamy urine. This may be due to the formation of uric acid crystals.
Frequent urination
Frequent urination, especially at night, can be another symptom of uric acid. The body may produce more urine to flush out excess uric acid.
Kidney stones or blood in urine
High levels of uric acid can cause the formation of kidney stones. These stones are hard substances that form in the kidneys. Their formation can cause back or waist pain, blood in urine, and difficulty in urinating.
Joint pain and swelling
Elevated levels of uric acid in the body can cause arthritis. Arthritis causes sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints. The most commonly affected joint by arthritis is the lower thumb joint, but it can also affect other joints in the body.
Stiff joints
People with high levels of uric acid may experience stiff joints, especially after sitting in one position for a long time or after waking up in the morning. You may also feel tired and weak.
Change your diet
- Reduce your intake of purine-rich foods, such as red meat, organ meats, seafood, and certain types of alcohol.
- Increase your intake of low-purine foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
- Drinking plenty of water dilutes uric acid in the urine and helps it pass out of the body.
- If you are overweight, losing weight may help lower uric acid levels.
- In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe uric acid-lowering medications, such as allopurinol.