You’ve likely heard of hyperuricemia, a condition marked by an excessive amount of uric acid in the blood. But what exactly causes it? And how can it impact your health?

High Uric Acid: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Uric acid is naturally produced in the body during the breakdown of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). It also forms in smaller amounts when purines—proteins found in certain foods—are metabolized. A diet high in purines means more uric acid is created.

Normally, the kidneys filter and eliminate uric acid without issues. However, problems arise when the body either produces too much or can’t excrete it effectively. In such cases, uric acid can crystallize and settle in joints, causing intense pain.

Common Causes of High Uric Acid

Overproduction of uric acid by the body

Kidney dysfunction leading to poor excretion

High intake of purine-rich foods

Alcohol and substance use

Additional Risk Factors

Frequent caffeine or alcohol consumption

Family history of gout

Use of iodine-based contrast for X-rays

Chronic stress

Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol

Symptoms

High uric acid often goes unnoticed at first. However, one major complication is gout, caused by uric acid crystals building up in the joints.

Other signs include:

Swollen, red, or painful joints

Limited joint movement—especially in fingers, knees, ankles, heels, and toes

Joint deformities in severe cases

Recurrent kidney stones causing back pain and difficulty urinating

Treatment

The main goal is to lower uric acid levels. This typically involves:

Dietary changes: Avoid purine-rich foods and drink plenty of low-mineral water

Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and drugs that reduce or block uric acid absorption

Preventive meds: Xanthine oxidase inhibitors may be prescribed for long-term control, not just during flare-ups

Recommended Foods

Artichokes

Onions

Celery

Pumpkin

Carrots

Strawberries

Citrus fruits

Eggs

Low-mineral water

Foods to Avoid

Red meat

Shellfish

Certain fish

Spinach

Mushrooms

Cauliflower

Asparagus

Alcohol

Sugary soft drinks

Prevention Tips

If you’re at risk, get annual checkups

Drink chamomile or horsetail infusions twice a week

Stay hydrated—aim for at least 2 liters of water daily

Limit red meat and seafood

Always seek medical advice for symptoms or concerns