Uric Acid   February 2025 We have talked a lot about blood pressure and how the kidneys play a role in controlling it. Let's explore some other topics that relate to the kidneys and how Dr. Munjal helps his patients to manage various diagnoses. Uric acid is a naturally occurring substance within your body. However, if uric acid is allowed to build up in your bloodstream, it can lead to a variety of problems. This is where Dr. Munjal comes in, as the kidneys are responsible for filtering uric acid and maintaining proper balance. Where Does Uric Acid Come From? Uric acid is the byproduct of purines being broken down in your body. Purines occur naturally in the body as they are components of DNA, but they are also found in many different foods. Foods high in purines include, but are not limited too: - Bacon - Broth - Organ Meats - Shellfish - Venison Being diagnosed with high levels of uric acid is called Hyperuricemia. Where Does Uric Acid Go? After purines have been broken down into uric acid, the uric acid enters into the bloodstream. As blood passes through the kidneys, waste products, including uric acid, are filtered out and added to the urine being produced for elimination. However, patients that are living with kidney diseases may be more susceptible to high uric acid levels as their kidneys may struggle to filter out enough of the waste product. Too much uric acid can lead to other problems that include gout and kidney stones. Elevated uric acid levels are also more likely if a patient is/has: -Male - Obese - Hypothyroidism - A family history of gout or hyperuricemia Keeping Uric Acid Levels Low Testing and monitoring for hyperuricemia only takes a simple blood draw. With this information, plans for treatments, diet changes, and medications can be discussed.   Often, the simplest way to help reduce the amount of uric acid being produced is by being mindful of your diet and weight. Maintaining adequate hydration and avoiding foods that are rich in purines will help to reduce your risk of kidney stones as well as limit the amount of uric acid that is being produced. Additionally, medications can also be used to help regulate the amount of uric acid that is present in the body. Medications can also be prescribed to help manage symptoms of gout. The best way to manage high uric levels is different for everyone; be sure to talk to Dr. Munjal to decide what is best for you! Additional Resources Websites, Articles, and/or Videos Cleveland Clinic: Hyperuricemia Mayo Clinic : High Uric Acid Levels Cleveland Clinic: Low Purine Diet Blog Posts How the Kidneys Filter Blood Urine Production Uric Acid Community Events Peter Pan Performance World of Nations Community First Seawalk Music Festival Still Have Questions? We love to empower through education. Click on the button below to visit our website to get answers to some common questions, previous education topics, as well as other helpful resources. Learn More Patient Care Coordinator Samantha is a dedicated team member who will work side by side with you to help manage your care via our RPM program. Contacting your Team Phone: (904) 260-9898 Fax: (904) 260-9891 Email: [email protected] Address: 13241 Bartram Park Blvd Suite 1001 Jacksonville, FL 32258 www.jaxnephrology.com Designed with Beefree