High Uric Acid
A raised uric acid is common and often found by chance. It is not always a problem — but it can lead to gout and signal other health issues. Here is what it means and when it needs attention.
What is uric acid, and why does it matter?
Uric acid is a normal waste product made when the body breaks down substances called purines, found in our own cells and in many foods. It is cleared by the kidneys. When levels stay high — a state called hyperuricaemia — uric acid can form needle-shaped crystals in the joints and tissues, which is what causes gout. High uric acid is very common, and often found by chance on a routine blood test.
Is a high reading always a problem?
Not necessarily — and this is where good advice matters:
- Many people with a raised uric acid never develop gout and don't need treatment
- The level, how long it has been raised, your kidney function and your other health conditions all matter
- A single high reading is less important than the overall picture
- High uric acid is also linked with high blood pressure, kidney disease and metabolic conditions — so it can be a useful signal to look at overall health
Signs it may be causing trouble
- A sudden, intensely painful, red, hot joint — classically the big toe — especially at night (gout)
- Recurring joint attacks that settle and return
- Lumps around the joints or ears (tophi)
- Kidney stones
When should you see a rheumatologist?
See a rheumatologist if your uric acid is high and you have had a joint attack, if attacks are recurring, if you have lumps around the joints, or if your level is very high or you have kidney problems. A specialist can confirm whether gout is present, decide whether treatment is needed, and set a target that actually prevents future attacks.
What can be done
Management depends on whether you have symptoms:
- No symptoms: often lifestyle measures and monitoring are enough — sensible diet, limiting alcohol (especially beer and spirits), maintaining a healthy weight, staying well hydrated
- With gout attacks: uric-acid-lowering medication (such as allopurinol or febuxostat), adjusted to reach a target level that dissolves crystals and stops attacks
- Review of medicines that can raise uric acid
- Periodic monitoring of uric acid and kidney function
Treated properly, gout is one of the most controllable conditions in medicine — attacks can be prevented entirely.
Told your uric acid is high?
A specialist can tell you whether it needs treatment — and if you've had joint attacks, how to stop them for good. Consultations are walk-in, no appointment needed.
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