High uric acid silently destroys health
Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of purines - a compound found in many foods and cells of the body. In healthy people, uric acid will be dissolved in the blood, then excreted by the kidneys and digestive tract. However, if the body produces too much uric acid or does not excrete it effectively, the concentration of this substance in the blood will increase, causing many serious consequences for health.
When uric acid accumulates beyond the allowable threshold, it can crystallize into sharp crystals in joints, kidneys and other tissues, creating many complex and dangerous diseases.
Risk of cardiovascular disease
High uric acid can promote inflammatory reactions and damage blood vessels, thereby increasing the risk of atherosclerosis, obstructing blood circulation and putting pressure on the heart. This condition not only disrupts endothelial function but also reduces the production of nitric oxide - a substance that helps protect blood vessel walls. In the long term, patients are susceptible to serious complications such as heart attack, stroke and heart failure.
Forming kidney stones
Excess uric acid can crystallize in the urinary system, forming kidney stones. Common symptoms include severe pain in the back or lower abdomen, bloody urination, nausea and frequent urination. If not treated promptly, stones can cause urine blockage, damage the kidneys, and even require surgery.
Gout
This is the most typical result of prolonged high uric acid levels. Urat crystals form in the joints, causing acute pain, swelling, redness, often occurring in the big toes. Gout is not only painful but also severely affects mobility if not controlled.
Chronic kidney disease
The kidneys are responsible for eliminating most uric acid. When overloaded for a long time, kidney tissue can become inflamed, fibrotic and gradually lose function. Prolonged high uric acid is a risk factor for the initiation or worsening of chronic kidney disease - a silent but extremely dangerous disease.
High blood pressure
High uric acid in the blood is associated with high blood pressure. The mechanism is believed to be due to uric acid damaging the vessel walls and reducing nitric oxide - a substance that helps dilate vessels and regulate blood pressure. Over time, this condition can cause arteriosclerosis and chronic high blood pressure.
Increased uric acid in the blood often has no obvious symptoms in the early stages, causing many people to be subjective. Regularly checking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle - including a low-purine diet, drinking enough water, maintaining a reasonable weight and limiting alcohol - is a simple but effective way to prevent serious health consequences caused by high uric acid.
