Symptoms of High Uric Acid
May 19, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Aihua
Introduction
When uric acid levels in the body are elevated, uric acid can accumulate in the kidneys and readily form kidney stones. If kidney stones are present, mild cases may cause low back pain or discomfort, while severe cases can result in excruciating pain that prevents the person from standing upright. Uric acid is normally excreted from the body via the kidneys; however, excessively high uric acid levels can obstruct the renal tubules and glomeruli, impairing the kidneys’ ability to eliminate excess fluid—leading to edema (fluid retention) in the body.
Clinically, the normal serum uric acid level for adult males is 149–416 μmol/L, and for adult females, it is 89–357 μmol/L. Once serum uric acid levels remain persistently above 420 μmol/L, a diagnosis of hyperuricemia is made—a condition that can lead to multiple disorders, including gout, and poses significant health risks. Therefore, it is essential to regularly monitor your uric acid levels and remain vigilant for any abnormal elevation. So, what are the symptoms of elevated uric acid?
Symptoms of Elevated Uric Acid
When uric acid levels in the body become excessively high, uric acid crystals tend to deposit in the kidneys, significantly increasing the risk of kidney stone formation. If kidney stones develop, mild cases may present with low back pain or generalized lumbar discomfort, while severe cases can cause excruciating pain so intense that the individual cannot stand upright. Although uric acid is normally excreted via the kidneys, excessively high concentrations can obstruct the renal tubules and glomeruli, impairing the kidneys’ ability to eliminate excess fluid—leading to fluid retention and edema.
Elevated uric acid levels also predispose individuals to gout. Gout may manifest as acute or chronic arthritis, tophi (urate crystal deposits), gouty nephropathy, and even cardiovascular disease. During an acute gouty arthritis attack, onset is typically sudden—often occurring at night or in the early morning. The affected joint rapidly becomes red, swollen, warm, and extremely tender, with marked limitation of movement. Systemic symptoms such as fever, headache, and generalized fatigue may also accompany the flare.
Preventing hyperuricemia begins with timely and accurate assessment of one’s uric acid levels; dietary control, while important, serves only as a foundational measure. We hope this information proves helpful to you! Wishing you optimal health and a joyful life!
