Uric acid is a chemical in the body that is produced when the body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are organic compounds that are found in many foods such as organ meat, anchovies, scallops, dried beans, beer and wine. Too much uric acid in the body leads to a condition called hyperuricemia. Most of the uric acid in the body is dissolved in the blood stream, filtered through the kidneys and eliminated in the urine. If uric acid levels are too high or if the body fails to rid them, some medical issues may arise.
It should be noted that chemotherapeutic agents, such as those used to treat lymphoma, multiple myeloma and leukemia, can cause rapid cell death, which can also lead to hyperuricemia.
Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis (joint swelling) that occurs due to uric acid accumulation in the joints. Attacks of gout develop quickly and may involve one or more joints. The big toe, knee and ankle joints are most commonly affected by gout. Symptoms of gout involve severe throbbing or crushing pain in the joint. The affected joint may appear red and feel warm. The pain in the joint may be so severe that it may hurt when a sheet or blanket comes in contact with it. Individuals suffering from gout might also develop a fever. Symptoms of gout usually resolve in several days, however, symptoms may re-appear from time to time.
Kidney Stones
Excessive uric acid levels cause most kidney stone formation. Symptoms associated with kidney stones may include pain in the back, sides, abdomen, groin and genital regions. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, nausea and vomiting may also occur with kidney stone formation. People may also experience changes in urinary habits such as blood in the urine or increase in frequency of urination.
Kidney Failure
Kidney failure, in most cases, is the cause of elevated uric acid levels due to the kidney’s inability to rid the body of wastes. In some cases, elevated uric acid levels are the cause of renal failure. Symptoms that may be experienced in an individual is in kidney failure include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath and overall swelling (due to the kidney’s inability to rid the body of excess fluid).
Deafness Hyperuricemia Neurologic Ataxia
Deafness Hyperuricemia Neurologic Ataxia is a very rare, inherited disease . People who suffer from this rare disease may experience symptoms such as elevated blood level of uric acid, kidney failure, ataxia (loss of coordination of muscle movement) and deafness.
About this Author
Robert Shifko has more than 17 years’ experience in the health care industry. Throughout his career, he has gained experience in pharmacologic research, clinical nuclear medicine, and most recently radiation health physics. He has obtained several certifications in nuclear medicine, epidemiology, biostatistics and as a medical radiation safety officer. He has always supported LIVESTRONG.
