symptomatic Hyperuricemia
What is Symptomatic Hyperuricemia?
Symptomatic hyperuricemia is a condition where the level of uric acid in the body rises to unhealthy levels and causes symptoms. It is often related to certain medical conditions such as gout, kidney dysfunction, and certain types of cancer. Hyperuricemia can also be caused by excessive levels of dietary purines.
Symptoms of Symptomatic Hyperuricemia
The most common symptom of symptomatic hyperuricemia is pain in the joints, especially in the big toe. Other symptoms may include increased urination, fever, general malaise, and swelling around affected joints. Some individuals may also develop kidney stones.
Risk Factors
Certain lifestyle and medical factors make individuals more prone to hyperuricemia. These include:
- Excessive consumption of protein-rich foods such as red meat and organ meat
- Excessive intake of drinks containing purines, such as beer and wine
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Kidney or liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and kidney stones
- Some medications, such as diuretics, aspirin, leukemia treatments, and thiazide diuretics
Treatment of Symptomatic Hyperuricemia
Treatment of symptomatic hyperuricemia depends on the underlying cause. Lifestyle modifications are often recommended, such as reducing dietary purine and alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly. In some cases, medications, including xanthine oxidase inhibitors, may be prescribed. Treatment may also involve taking urine alkalinizing agents, which are used to reduce the concentration of uric acid in the urinary tract.
Complications of Symptomatic Hyperuricemia
If not treated appropriately, symptomatic hyperuricemia can lead to serious health complications. These may include gout, which is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Over time, this can lead to joint damage and disability. Kidney stones and renal failure caused by excessive levels of uric acid are also common complications.