What is uric acid? Uric acid is a waste compound formed in the liver as a result of the metabolism of purines. Purine is an important organic molecule that serves as one of the building blocks of DNA and RNA. Uric acid (UA) is produced from purines by the enzyme xanthine oxidase in the liver and is then released into the bloodstream. This acid in the bloodstream is filtered by the kidneys and excreted from the body through urine. At normal levels, uric acid has antioxidant properties and can protect the body against free radicals.
What is uric acid? It is a substance that can lead to health problems when it accumulates excessively in the body. High UA levels can cause gout. Additionally, elevated uric acid can increase the risk of kidney stones and certain kidney diseases. Diet, genetic factors, alcohol consumption, and certain medications can affect UA levels. To keep UA levels under control, it is recommended to avoid purine-rich foods, drink plenty of water, and engage in regular exercise.
Some purine-rich foods include:
- Meat and Meat Products: Red meat, organ meats, and processed meats.
- Seafood: Shellfish, oily fish, and caviar.
- Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, and beans.
- Vegetables: Asparagus, spinach, mushrooms, and cauliflower.
- Alcoholic Beverages
What is Uric Acid Elevation?
Uric acid elevation is a condition where UA levels in the body are above normal. This can lead to various health issues and is particularly associated with gout, which causes painful inflammation in the joints.
Gout symptoms include the most common one, gout arthritis, characterized by sudden, severe pain, swelling, redness, and a feeling of warmth in the big toe. These symptoms arise from the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. Gout attacks usually begin at night and can last for several days.
In addition to gout, symptoms of uric acid elevation can include:
If untreated, gout arthritis caused by excessive uric acid can lead to joint damage and limited mobility. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical help immediately upon noticing symptoms of gout. The treatment for this condition typically involves anti-inflammatory medications and uric acid-lowering drugs.
The treatment of gout aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent future attacks. In addition to medication, lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments may be necessary. Gout patients try to control their uric acid levels by paying attention to their diet and making lifestyle changes. It is particularly important to avoid purine-rich foods, limit alcohol consumption, and drink plenty of water.
Elevated blood uric acid levels can lead not only to gout but also to the formation of kidney stones and certain kidney diseases. Therefore, regular health check-ups and blood tests to monitor uric acid levels are important for the early detection and treatment of potential health problems.
Uric acid elevation is a condition that can lead to serious health problems. However, conscious behaviors and preventive measures are critical to controlling UA levels and preventing conditions like gout. Regular monitoring and appropriate lifestyle changes can help maintain healthy uric acid levels and overall well-being.