How to Treat Hyperuricemia

Hyperuricemia is a condition in which there is too much uric acid in the blood. The human body creates uric acid as a waste product when it breaks down purines, which are contained in many foods. Excess uric acid causes crystals to form in the joints, which may lead to more serious conditions. Once a person develops gout or another condition, steps can be taken to prevent the disease from returning.

Instructions

1. Get a blood test. A test can measure the amount of uric acid in your blood. This may not be conclusive evidence that you have hyperuricemia, since not everyone with high uric acid develops other health problems.

2. Have arthrocentesis testing. This test involves removing joint fluid under local anesthesia. This process allows analysis of the fluid to diagnose the level of uric acid in the blood.

3. Submit to a uric acid excretion test. This monitoring test is commonly used by doctors to identify the most appropriate uric acid lowering medication. Upon determining the level of excretion and a patient's medical history, different types of medication may be prescribed.

4. Take medications when recommended by your doctor. Medication such as Allopurinol blocks uric acid production. Probenecid helps improve the kidney's ability to remove uric acid from the bloodstream. Other types of medication may be prescribed if the hyperuricemia has progressed to the point of causing gout or other complications.

5. Elevate the affected joint if possible. Applying ice packs can also be helpful in reducing pain and decrease inflammation.

6. Adjust dietary intake as recommended by a doctor. Certain foods aggravate hyperuricemia, while others inhibit it.

Resources

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