Elevated Uric Acid

[Palladin]

I recently had an annual physical exam which included urinalysis and CBC. I am posted in a remote location and have to go to another city for the exam (about 3 hours flight away).  So, I only get a written report on the results.  It said I have an elevated uric acid level.  Can you tell me what this means, what are its casues and what symptoms I may be or have been having that would have alerted me to this?  Also, what do I do to lower it?  The rate was 7.5 mg/dl.

I have BPH and take Cardura and Proscar, as well as Norvasc for BP.

Thanks in advance for any help and insight.

[Palladin]

Thanks Dr. Mathews.  Alcohol is not an issue, as I don't drink alcohol.  I am a bit over my ideal weight, and have put myself on a target of dropping 20 pounds.  With regard to high purine foods, what would this be (in other words, what food should I avoid)?  Your help is much appreciated as I am remotely posted in a foreign country, where I have no access to western medical care without taking a 3 hour flight.  So, I apologize for extended questions.

[Dr Smitha Mathews]

Hi,

"Causes of high uric acid levels in your blood (hyperuricemia) include:

    * Obesity
    * Excessive alcohol use
    * Diets high in purines
    * Certain medications, including low-dose aspirin, diuretics and some high blood pressure drugs
    * Certain diseases that have a high cell turnover rate, such as leukemia, lymphoma or psoriasis

Initially, hyperuricemia may cause no symptoms. But if untreated, it can lead to:

    * Gout
    * Uric acid stones in the urinary tract
    * Deposits of uric acid in the kidneys (uric acid nephropathy)
    * Deposits of uric acid in the soft tissue (tophi)

Treatment is directed at reducing uric acid levels and may include lifestyle changes such as:

    * Avoiding alcohol
    * Maintaining a healthy weight
    * Losing weight if you're overweight
    * Avoiding foods high in purines
    * Discontinuing use of medications that may be causing elevated uric acid levels"
www.mayoclinic.com/health/uric-acid/AN01122

Normal levels of uric acid varies from laboratory to laboratory. The range of the maximum can be between 7 and 8.5 mg/dl. Increasing age is another factor that affects the uric acid levels.

Individuals with cardiovascular disease also tend to have higher uric acid. This is attributed to the antioxidant properties of uric acid and is considered part of normal body reaction.

You will need additional investigations done to rule out whether impaired kidney function could be contributing to the increased level of uric acid.

Do keep us posted.
Regards