The uric acid is a chemical compound that originates when the body breaks down substances called purines. These purines are usually produced in the body itself, although they are also present in some foods and drinks.
Thus, due to a diet rich in foods with purine in their composition and the characteristics of each person, uric acid levels can rise considerably. In this sense, when there is an excess of uric acid in the blood, it is known as hyperuricemia.
According to experts, levels of uric acid considered normal should range between 2.4 and 6.0 mg/dL in the case of of women; and between 3.4 and 7.0 mg/dL for men.
When uric acid levels are excessive in the body, health problems such as kidney stones or gout can arise, which is especially characterized by pain in the joints.
Hyperuricemia: High levels of uric acid
In the field of medicine, the causes of high levels of uric acid are differentiated into two elements. One of them is primary hyperuricemia, which is characterized by high levels of purines themselves; and another secondary hyperuricemia, caused by some other disease.
Gout
It must also be taken into account that sometimes the body can produce a greater amount of this acid than it can excrete. In the case of primary hyperuricemia, it can occur because the kidneys lose their ability to efficiently remove uric acid from the blood.
Effects of hyperuricemia
When an episode of hyperuricaemia occurs, that is, there are high levels of uric acid, it is possible that this phenomenon is reflected through different symptoms. Although, there may also be situations in which no type of symptomatology develops.
In this sense, people who are receiving chemotherapy for leukemia or lymphoma may present symptoms of kidney problems or gouty arthritis if they have high levels of this acid.
Likewise, when there are different forms of cancer, they can cause fever, chills or fatigue, if a period of hyperuricemia arises.
One of the most common effects of hyperuricemia is the appearance of a disease known as 'gout', although it is a pathology that can also develop with normal levels of uric acid. Specifically, gout arises when the crystals of this acid accumulate in a joint, generating severe pain.
Finally, hyperuricemia can also cause the appearance of different kidney problems in people's bodies.
How to deal with high levels of uric acid
When there are high levels of uric acid, it is necessary to inform the doctors about any medication you are taking, as well as if there is a history of diabetes, liver, kidney or heart disease.
Thus, it will be essential to follow the doctor's instructions regarding how to reduce uric acid levels in the blood and how to treat a state of hyperuricemia.
When the levels are high they include a high risk of gout or kidney stones, it is normal for any doctor to recommend a low-purine diet.
