High uric acid in the blood is not only related to gout but can also affect kidney function.
According to BS.CKII Nguyen An Chau - General Director of Minh Anh International Hospital, people with high uric acid, even if they have never had a gout attack, still need to pay attention to regular kidney health check-ups.
Uric acid is mainly excreted through the kidneys. When uric acid levels rise for a long time, urate crystals can deposit in the kidneys and urinary tracts, increasing the risk of formation of urate stones. This condition can cause obstruction, trigger inflammatory reactions and affect the structure and function of the kidneys.
The relationship between uric acid and kidney disease takes place in two directions. When kidney function declines, the ability to excrete uric acid decreases, causing the concentration of this substance in the blood to increase. Conversely, prolonged increase in uric acid can promote the deposition of urate crystals, thereby causing kidney damage. The two conditions can interact and cause each other's pathology to progress.
To detect abnormalities early, people with high uric acid may be tested for kidney function assessment indicators such as creatinine, urea, BUN, and eGFR. A general urine analysis, uACR test, and abdominal ultrasound also help further assess kidney and urinary tract conditions.
Doctors recommend that people with high uric acid should control their uric acid levels at an appropriate level, while maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. It is necessary to limit factors that increase uric acid, control underlying conditions well, and discuss with your doctor about medications being used if they are suspected of affecting uric acid levels.
Periodic monitoring of uric acid and kidney function helps detect abnormalities early, thereby having appropriate intervention measures, even if the patient has never had a gout attack.
