5 Diseases That Can Increase Your Uric Acid

Uric acid is a by-product yielded during the breakdown of purines found in foods and is usually removed from the blood by the kidneys and passed in urine. However, when this process is interrupted, high levels of uric acid are produced in the blood and cause different diseases. High levels of uric acid in the blood may indicate the presence of certain diseases. Below are five diseases that cause high levels of uric acid, with an emphasis on the diagnostic tests, including the uric acid test.

1. Gout

Gout is probably the most famous disease that is linked to high levels of uric acid. It is a form of arthritis that is characterised by the deposit of uric acid in the joints. These crystals cause severe pain, erythema and oedema. Gout is usually abrupt and can be very severe in nature. The condition is usually confirmed by testing the levels of uric acid in the blood and by analysing the joint fluid for the presence of uric acid crystals. Gout is caused by high uric acid, but the treatment implies the use of drugs to reduce uric acid levels and the rejection of foods containing a lot of purines.

2. Kidney Disease

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) may affect the capacity of the kidneys to remove uric acid from the bloodstream. In cases where the kidney is not functioning properly, the level of uric acid in the blood increases and may cause some problems like gout or the formation of kidney stones. It is important to keep track of the state of the kidneys in order to prevent or control the levels of uric acid. A uric acid test can be included in the diagnostic process to evaluate the general state of the kidneys which can help determine the causes of increased uric acid.

3. Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a combination of factors that put a person at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance is another feature of metabolic syndrome and this can lead to increased uric acid levels. Metabolic syndrome is characterised by high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist and abnormal cholesterol levels. The treatment of metabolic syndrome entails the following risk factors by altering the lifestyle and taking medications. Blood tests, such as the uric acid test, can be used to check the effects of metabolic syndrome on general health and uric acid.

4. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not secrete enough thyroid hormones, and this can cause several metabolic abnormalities such as hyperuricemia. The thyroid hormones are involved in the metabolism of purines and when they are deficient, the metabolism of purines is affected hence leading to higher levels of uric acid. Some of the signs of hypothyroidism include lethargy, obesity and sensitivity to cold. The treatment of hypothyroidism mostly entails the use of hormones, and the levels of uric acid should also be checked in order to ensure proper management of the disease. A uric acid test may also be useful in assessing thyroid function which is influenced by thyroid diseases.

5. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a long-term skin disorder that causes the skin cells to multiply at a faster than normal rate, thus forming thick layers of skin. This condition is characterised by systemic inflammation and can affect the metabolism of uric acid and cause increased levels. Inflammation in psoriasis can worsen or cause gout because both diseases are associated with the formation of uric acid. Psoriasis is best treated by reducing inflammation and the symptoms of the disease by the use of drugs and alteration of certain behaviours. It is also important to check one’s uric acid levels and perform tests like the uric acid test to understand how psoriasis and inflammation may be impacting the body.

Role of Diagnostic Tests

Uric acid tests are very useful in the management and assessment of the effects of these diseases on uric acid. For instance, a uric acid test can give important data about uric acid and general metabolism, which can be helpful in case of kidney and thyroid diseases.

Although the test does not quantify uric acid, it assists in assessing the overall metabolic situation and may reveal abnormalities that could lead to high uric acid levels. The uric acid test price delivers great value considering its importance.

Elevated Uric Acid Management

The treatment of high uric acid levels requires the use of drugs, changes in diet and other habits, and periodic examination. Here are some general strategies:

• Medication: Medications such as allopurinol or febuxostat can be taken to reduce the levels of uric acid. The type of medication to be administered will be determined by the doctor depending on your health status and requirements.
• Diet: Some of the ways of controlling the levels of uric acid include limiting the consumption of foods that are high in purines, like red meat, shellfish and certain types of alcohol.
• Hydration: It is also important to take a lot of water since this assists the kidneys to filter out the uric acid.
• Weight Management: It is recommended that one should keep off any conditions that may lead to high levels of uric acid in the body such as being overweight. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, several diseases can cause high levels of uric acid, and it is crucial to comprehend the connection between these diseases and uric acid to manage them. The uric acid test is one of the diagnostic tests that can be useful in diagnosing and managing these conditions. Moreover, the uric acid test price comes at an affordable range. The uric acid levels can be managed, and the general health of the patient can be enhanced through constant check-ups and a holistic approach to the treatment.