Women's Health Impact on Economic Resilience and Productivity

Uric acid is a natural waste product that forms when the body breaks down purines, which are substances found in certain foods and drinks as well as in your own body cells. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood, passes through the kidneys, and leaves the body in urine. However, when the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys don't eliminate enough of it, uric acid can build up in the blood, leading to a condition called hyperuricemia. This excess uric acid can form sharp crystals that deposit in joints, causing gout, or accumulate in the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney stones.

A uric acid blood test measures the amount of uric acid in your bloodstream. Healthcare providers typically order this test when someone experiences symptoms of gout, such as sudden and severe joint pain, swelling, redness, and warmth, particularly in the big toe. The test is also used to monitor people undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, as these treatments cause rapid cell breakdown that can increase uric acid levels. Additionally, doctors may order this test to help diagnose the cause of kidney stones or to monitor individuals with conditions that affect uric acid metabolism.

The test requires a simple blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. In some cases, your doctor may ask you to fast for several hours before the test or to avoid certain foods and medications that can affect uric acid levels. Normal uric acid levels typically range from 3.5 to 7.2 milligrams per deciliter for men and 2.6 to 6.0 milligrams per deciliter for women, though these values may vary slightly between laboratories.

High uric acid levels can indicate gout, kidney disease, certain types of cancer, or metabolic syndrome. They may also result from a diet high in purines, found in red meat, organ meats, certain seafood, and alcoholic beverages, especially beer. Low uric acid levels are less common but can occur with liver disease, kidney disease, or certain genetic disorders. If your test results are abnormal, your healthcare provider will consider them along with your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to determine the appropriate next steps, which may include dietary changes, medications, or further testing.