Uric acid is a waste product produced by the body's metabolic processes, and it is normally excreted through the kidneys. However, when uric acid is produced too much or not excreted enough, the level of uric acid in the blood rises, a condition called hyperuricemia.
Long-term hyperuricemia can not only lead to gout, but can also induce other serious health problems. Here are three conditions that are closely associated with hyperuricemia.
Long-term high uric acid
It is easy to induce these 3 diseases
1. Gout:
When uric acid levels are too high, urate can form crystals in the joints, causing severe pain and inflammation known as gout. The first attack of gout usually affects the big toe joint, but it can also affect other joints.
2. Kidney stones:
Uric acid crystals may be deposited in the kidneys to form stones. Kidney stones can cause severe pain and even lead to blocked urinary tract and kidney damage.
3. Chronic kidney disease:
Long-term hyperuricemia can impair kidney function, leading to chronic kidney disease. Uric acid crystals can directly damage kidney tissue, affecting its ability to filter and excrete waste.
In addition to these three main diseases, hyperuricemia is also associated with other health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
A common cause of elevated uric acid
What are they
1. Dietary factors:
Consuming too much purine-rich foods, such as red meat, seafood, organ meats, beer, and certain vegetables (e.g., spinach, mushrooms), can increase uric acid production.
2. Overweight or obesity:
Obesity increases uric acid production and may affect the uric acid excretion function of the kidneys.
3. Smoking and drinking:
Drinking alcohol, especially beer and spirits, increases uric acid production and interferes with uric acid excretion. Smoking also increases uric acid levels.
4. Drug factors:
Certain medications, such as diuretics, certain anti-tuberculosis drugs, certain antihypertensive drugs, etc., may interfere with the excretion of uric acid.
5. Metabolic diseases:
Such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, etc., these diseases may affect the metabolism and excretion of uric acid.
6. Genetic factors:
Some people are more likely to have elevated uric acid due to genetic reasons that have poor metabolism and excretion of uric acid.
7. Kidney disease:
Kidney disease may lead to decreased uric acid excretion, which can lead to elevated uric acid.
8. Dehydration:
Dehydration increases uric acid concentrations because uric acid needs water to help with excretion.
9. Certain disease states:
Such as infection, stress, trauma, etc., these conditions may temporarily increase uric acid levels.
How to prevent elevated uric acid
1. Adjust your diet:
Reduce your intake of high-purine foods such as red meat, organ meats, seafood, etc. At the same time, increase your intake of low-purine foods, such as fresh vegetables and fruits.
2. Increase water intake:
Adequate hydration can help thin uric acid in the blood and facilitate its excretion through the kidneys. It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
3. Control your weight:
Obesity increases uric acid production and decreases its excretion. Maintain a healthy weight by eating a healthy diet and exercising moderately.
4. Limit alcohol intake:
Alcohol, especially beer and spirits, increases uric acid production. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake, or avoid alcohol altogether.
5. Avoid high-fructose foods:
The intake of added sugars such as high fructose corn syrup is associated with elevated uric acid. Reduce your intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and processed foods.
6. Moderate exercise:
Regular physical activity can boost metabolism, help with weight control, and may help lower uric acid levels.
7. Avoid rapid weight loss:
Rapid weight loss may cause a temporary increase in uric acid levels in the body, as the body produces more uric acid when it breaks down fat. A healthy, gradual approach to weight loss is recommended.
8. Take medication according to the doctor's instructions:
If you are taking medications that may affect uric acid excretion, you should discuss possible alternatives or adjust the dose with your doctor.