What is Hyperuricemia?

Hyperuricemia is a condition in which there is too much uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product formed when the body breaks down substances called purines, which are found in certain foods and drinks. When the body produces too much uric acid or doesn’t eliminate enough, levels can rise and lead to complications like gout or kidney stones.

What causes Hyperuricemia?

Hyperuricemia can result from various factors:

Overproduction of uric acid:

• Genetic disorders
• High intake of purine-rich foods (e.g., red meat, organ meats, seafood)
• Rapid cell turnover (e.g., in certain cancers or during chemotherapy)

Under-excretion of uric acid:

• Kidney disease or dysfunction
• Certain medications (e.g., diuretics, low-dose aspirin)
• Alcohol consumption (especially beer)
• Dehydration

What are the symptoms of Hyperuricemia?

Hyperuricemia itself often doesn’t cause symptoms. However, when it leads to complications, symptoms may appear:

• Gout – sudden, severe joint pain, swelling, redness, usually in the big toe
• Kidney stones – sharp back or abdominal pain, blood in urine
• Tophi – visible lumps under the skin in chronic gout

How is Hyperuricemia diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made with:

• Blood test – To check uric acid levels (typically >6.8 mg/dL is considered high)
• Urine test – To assess how much uric acid is being excreted
• Imaging – X-rays or ultrasound may be used if joint damage or kidney stones are suspected

What are the complications of untreated Hyperuricemia?

If left unmanaged, high uric acid levels can lead to:

• Gout attacks
• Chronic joint damage and deformity
• Kidney stones
• Chronic kidney disease
• Cardiovascular issues (associated risk factor)

What is the treatment for Hyperuricemia?

Lifestyle changes:

• Limit intake of purine-rich foods (like red meat, sardines, liver)
• Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol (especially beer)
• Stay well-hydrated
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly

Medications:

• Xanthine oxidase inhibitors (e.g., allopurinol, febuxostat) – Reduce uric acid production
• Uricosuric agents (e.g., probenecid) – Help the kidneys excrete more uric acid
• Colchicine or NSAIDs – Used to manage gout flare-ups
• Corticosteroids – Sometimes used for inflammation control

Can Hyperuricemia be prevented?

Yes, in many cases it can be prevented or well-controlled by:

• Following a balanced, low-purine diet
• Staying hydrated
• Reducing alcohol intake
• Avoiding crash diets and fasting
• Monitoring medications that may affect uric acid levels