A high uric acid problem occurs when the kidneys don’t eliminate uric acid effectively. Uric acid is a chemical that is created when the body breaks a substance called the purines. Purines are produced in the body but are also found in some foods and drinks.
Foods with a high content of purines include liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas, and beer.
To talk more about a high uric acid problem, we invited top rheumatologist, Dr. Amir Saeed. He is a foreign qualified, certified, consultant rheumatologist with 22 years of experience. He currently practices at Chughtai Medical Centre, Lahore
Q.1. Please tell us about high levels of Uric Acid?
Well, in simple language, uric acid is a breakdown product of the foods we consume. Foods we eat such as fish, prawns, red meat increase the level of uric acid in the stomach. However, a high uric acid doesn’t always mean that your condition is serious.
The problem occurs when the uric acid levels remain too high for an indefinite period of time. That’s when it causes joint problems and muscle pain.
Q.2. What will happen if you have high uric acid?
If your uric acid levels have been high for a while, then you will surely experience some mobility issues. Since uric acid is in the form of a salt in the body, it collects near the joints and tendons and causes pain.
Moreover, it also causes internal and external inflammation of the joints which causes intense pain. Consequently, the area around the joint becomes red, resembling a fracture. At this point, the condition becomes gout and immediate treatment is required.
Q.3. How do you treat high uric acid?
Well, there are two phases of treatment for this. The first is lifestyle modification. They are advised to refrain from foods that cause high uric acid. Eat beef, mutton, and seafood in moderation.
The second treatment is through medication. These medicines help uric acid gets released from the body. With a good diet and a treatment plan, uric acids levels can stabilize.
Q.4. What are the associated diseases with high uric acid?
Well, the main condition that arises due to a high uric acid level is gout, followed by arthritis.
In addition to this, it can also cause kidney stone. If the patient is diabetic, with high cholesterol levels, it can even cause cardiac problems.
Q.5. What is hyperuricemia?
Hyperuricemia is a term that is used when the bodies’ uric acid levels become too high beyond a normal range. Every person who has high uric acid doesn’t need treatment, but if they have joint pain, then treatment is required.
Above all, a balanced diet with sufficient water must be taken.
To learn more about a high uric acid problem, watch the full interview. For any health concerns related to high uric acid, contact a rheumatologist.
You can book an appointment with a top rheumatologist through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT professional for your concerns.
