Why is High Uric Acid Becoming Common?

Have you noticed that people, even in their 20s and 30s, are getting diagnosed with high uric acid? The condition which primarily affected older individuals is now increasingly becoming common among the younger generations.

But why is that high uric acid taking the form of a major health concern? Is there anything that can be done to prevent elevated uric acid levels before they lead to other painful conditions?

Let’s discuss this in detail. But first, understand what high uric acid is.

What is High Uric Acid?

Uric acid is actually a waste product which is naturally formed by the body when it breaks down purines (compounds found in human cells and in certain foods and beverages like red meat, seafood and alcohol).

Uric acid is filtered by the kidneys and excreted through urine. However, health concerns arise only when there is excess production of uric acid or if the kidneys fail to eliminate enough of it.

In the medical context, the condition is known as ‘hyperuricemia’, which, when not kept in check, results in the formation of sharp crystals in the joints, leading to painful gout attacks. Ignoring timely high uric acid treatment also increases the risk of kidney stones and other metabolic disorders.

What is the Reason Behind the Increased Prevalence of High Uric Acid?

Developing high uric acid is not the result of a single cause. It has started to affect individuals even in lower age brackets due to a combination of factors. Dr. Amitabha Saha, a reputed internal medicine and critical care medicine specialist and well-appreciated for providing high uric acid treatment, gives a glimpse of what is making hyperuricemia a growing health issue.

1. Poor Dietary Choice: Today, people have resorted to processed foods, sugary beverages and fast-food meals. Regular consumption of items like instant noodles, fried items, packaged snacks, sodas, energy drinks and alcohol contains purines and even puts pressure on the kidneys. Instead, opt for whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, fruits and home-cooked foods.
2. No Physical Activity: Nowadays, the younger generation needs to sit for long hours due to desk jobs with no movement. A lack of exercise is a contributing factor behind obesity, insulin resistance and poor metabolic health, all of which are associated with increased high uric acid levels. Try to engage in some exercise for at least 30 minutes to enhance the body’s ability to regulate high uric acid.
3. Genetics: Some individuals inherit genes that negatively affect how their bodies process high uric acid. While genetics can’t be changed, following a healthy lifestyle can increase the likelihood of complications.
4. Chronic Stress: Young generations are now prone to chronic stress due to work pressure and financial responsibilities. No work-life balance contributes to hormonal changes, weight gain, unhealthy eating habits and inadequate sleep, which directly increases uric acid.

Conclusion

For those with high uric acid, regular monitoring is advisable to keep the levels under check. Your healthcare provider will recommend periodic blood tests to prepare a personalised high uric acid treatment for better health outcomes.