The bones in the human body form the framework of the body, providing it strength, stability and shape. Because of the bones, humans are able to do most of the activities such as sit, stand, walk, run, bend, etc. Without the bones, humans would not exist and therefore taking good care of the bones and joints is an important function for human beings.
High levels of uric acid and other chemical byproducts can cause the degradation of bones and joints. Keeping a check on the levels of waste in the urine and blood by taking a uric acid test can be helpful in watching out for potential kidney and bone-related issues such as gout.
Kidney failure is also a potential problem that may stem from excessive uric acid content in the blood therefore keeping a watchful eye on diet and health is important for patients who are at risk for developing these issues.
Uric Acid and Gout
Uric acid, like many other chemicals present in the urine, such as urea, ammonia, creatinine, etc., is a byproduct of metabolism in the body. It is often released when the food and drinks we consume are metabolized and used to produce energy and cell regeneration.
Some foods may have higher levels of uric acid in them than others, and if the levels are too high or too frequent in the food that one consumes, it may not be effectively filtered out by the kidneys. This can cause retention of uric acid in the body, which mainly accumulates around the joints of the body.
The uric acid has the property to crystallize and become sharp glass-like crystals around the bones of the lower body, especially the toes and ankles. This condition is referred to as gout. Gout is a serious medical condition causing extreme pain and discomfort for patients with it.
It is also a chronic disorder that can only be managed and never treated completely. Patients prone to gout need to watch out for its symptoms and keep an eye on their uric acid levels. Symptoms of high uric acid levels in the body which may lead to gout, can be seen as follows:
- Painful urination
- Pain in the lower back or groin
- Too much or too little urine
- Blood while urinating
- Pain in the joints, especially near the toes
- Numbness of joints
- Extreme discomfort when walking
- Burning sensation around toes and ankle
Managing Gout
Gout can be managed by simple diet and lifestyle changes that are revolving around kidney health and bone health. Doctors may advise taking tests such as the uric acid test to check on the levels of uric acid in the body through both blood serum and urine samples.
High levels of uric acid may either lead to gout or may settle as stones in the kidney. Kidney stones may be removed by simple outpatient procedure or by surgery if they are too big. Either way, uric acid tests can reveal if there is something to worry about by how much uric acid is present in the body.
Uric acid test price costs below Rs 300 for blood serum or urine, but both these tests may be recommended by a doctor or specialist in order to get a cumulative value. Uric acid levels can be corrected using medication, changes in diet and changes in lifestyle.
