What are the causes and risks of high uric acid levels in the blood?
During my recent physical examination, the doctor told me that my blood uric acid level is high. May I ask, what are the causes and risks associated with elevated blood uric acid levels?
Doctor's answer (1)
The main causes of high blood uric acid levels can be summarized into two categories:
1. Medical conditions, such as kidney disease, liver disease, tumors, and pregnancy-related disorders, which may affect uric acid metabolism and excretion.
2. Non-disease factors, such as excessive intake of high-purine foods or the use of diuretics, anti-tuberculosis medications, which may interfere with uric acid excretion.
The main risks associated with high blood uric acid levels include:
1. Gout: The most common complication of hyperuricemia is gout, characterized by acute arthritis attacks, severe pain, commonly affecting the big toe.
2. Kidney damage: It may lead to kidney stones, gouty nephropathy, and even renal insufficiency.
3. Cardiovascular diseases: Studies have shown that hyperuricemia is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and heart failure.
4. Metabolic syndrome: Hyperuricemia often coexists with metabolic abnormalities such as obesity, insulin resistance, and hyperlipidemia, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
5. Impaired glucose metabolism: Patients with hyperuricemia are prone to dysfunction of pancreatic beta cells, leading to elevated blood glucose levels.
Patients with high blood uric acid levels are advised to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and take appropriate treatment measures to control uric acid levels and reduce the risk of complications.
