Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jun 27: Persistently high levels of uric acid in the blood, a condition medically known as hyperuricemia, are raising serious health concerns, with doctors warning of its potential to cause chronic kidney disease (CKD), increase cardiovascular risk, and trigger painful attacks of gout.
Uric acid is a waste product formed when the body breaks down purines—substances found in many foods such as red meat, organ meats, seafood, and alcoholic beverages. While it is normally eliminated through urine, excessive production or reduced excretion can lead to accumulation in the blood.
Dr Muneer Ahmad, a nephrologist, said that unchecked uric acid levels not only cause gout but can also silently damage kidneys over time, leading to chronic kidney disease. “There is also growing evidence linking hyperuricemia to hypertension, heart disease, and metabolic disorders,” he said.
Gout, the most well-known manifestation of high uric acid, is a form of arthritis marked by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, and redness, often in the joints of the feet.
“Many patients are unaware that high uric acid can be a silent contributor to kidney and heart diseases,” said Dr Yasir Bhat, another doctor at DHSK. “It’s important to test and monitor uric acid levels, especially in those with a family history or related symptoms.”
He advised routine checkups and dietary discipline as the most effective strategies for preventing the long-term damage caused by hyperuricemia.
Doctors said that consuming red meat, organ meats (like liver), seafood (such as anchovies and sardines), and alcoholic beverages—especially beer—can elevate uric acid.
The beverages high in fructose, including soft drinks and fruit juices, are also known as culprits, they said, adding that overweight individuals are more prone to hyperuricemia due to poor metabolism. Hypertension, kidney disorders, diabetes, and thyroid issues can interfere with the body’s ability to eliminate uric acid.
According to doctors, a family history of gout or uric acid-related problems may increase the risk.
To manage and prevent elevated uric acid levels, health experts recommend several lifestyle modifications: drinking plenty of water to help kidneys flush out uric acid efficiently; reducing intake of red meat, shellfish, high-fat dairy products, and especially beer and sugary drinks; maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise; and consuming low-fat dairy, complex carbohydrates, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
They also warned that rapid weight loss can temporarily increase uric acid levels, underscoring the importance of gradual weight management.
