Hyperuricemia Complications

Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
Updated on November 25, 2024
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Common complications, the first is the effect on joints, manifested as local joint redness, swelling, heat, and pain, and even mobility impairment, usually referring to gouty arthritis. The second complication is the effect on the kidneys, resulting in hyperuricemic nephropathy, where the patient will experience abnormal kidney function. The third complication is the formation of gouty tophi, where many patients have deposits in the joints, leading to the occurrence of tophi and causing joint mobility impairment. Therefore, hyperuricemia needs to be treated promptly to prevent these complications.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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Hyperuricemia Clinical Symptoms

Some patients with hyperuricemia may not have any symptoms, and only discover elevated uric acid levels during a physical examination. However, some patients may experience gouty arthritis, manifesting as redness, swelling, heat, and pain in a localized joint, commonly in the joints of the toes. It may also affect joints like the ankle and elbow. Additionally, some patients may develop gouty nephropathy, leading to renal insufficiency. Therefore, hyperuricemia should be taken seriously to prevent severe conditions such as gouty arthritis and other serious symptoms associated with gout.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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What are the harms of hyperuricemia?

The dangers of hyperuricemia: Firstly, some individuals might experience gouty arthritis, characterized by localized joint swelling, redness, heat, and pain, affecting mobility. Secondly, prolonged hyperuricemia can damage the kidneys, leading to chronic renal failure. Thirdly, if hyperuricemia persists long-term, it may result in the formation of tophi. Tophi deposited in joints can cause joint deformities and limited mobility. Additionally, hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and thus should be taken seriously.

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Written by Li Lang Bo
Endocrinology
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Can people with hyperuricemia eat eggs?

In the case of hyperuricemia, we primarily recommend a low-purine diet to prevent the onset of gouty arthritis. As for the nutritional content of eggs, they are considered a food with a moderate level of purines. Therefore, when uric acid levels are relatively high, it is still possible to consume them in moderation. Aside from diet, it is also necessary to drink plenty of water or to alkalize the urine using baking soda tablets even if there is a transient increase in blood uric acid levels. If sufficient water is consumed, it is less likely for deposits to form in the joints. If deposits do not easily form, it also relatively reduces the possibility of triggering inflammatory responses, thus preventing the occurrence of gouty arthritis. Therefore, it is possible to consume an appropriate amount of eggs, but it is also important to drink plenty of water and appropriately alkalize the urine.

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Written by Chen Xie
Endocrinology
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How is hyperuricemia treated?

The treatment of hyperuricemia mainly includes the following points: 1. Improve lifestyle primarily, including a low-purine diet, appropriate exercise, smoking cessation, and increased water intake. 2. Alkalize urine using sodium bicarbonate to maintain urine pH value between 6.2 and 6.9, which facilitates the excretion of uric acid. 3. Avoid drugs that increase uric acid levels, such as diuretics, corticosteroids, and insulin. 4. Use medications that lower uric acid levels; drugs that increase uric acid excretion mainly include probenecid and sulfinpyrazone, and drugs that inhibit uric acid synthesis mainly include febuxostat and allopurinol. However, the treatment with these drugs has specific indications, contraindications, and related side effects. It is advised to use medication under the guidance of a doctor and avoid choosing drugs for treatment arbitrarily.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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What should be noted for hyperuricemia?

Firstly, hyperuricemia is just found during routine physical examinations or blood tests, showing an increase in blood uric acid levels without the occurrence of gout attacks, meaning there are no symptoms of joint pain. At this time, there is no need for special medication, which means uric acid-lowering drugs are not required. However, you need to be cautious and change your lifestyle habits. For example, abstaining from alcohol, controlling the intake of animal organs, seafood, and barbecued foods. Additionally, drinking more water is necessary, and for overweight individuals, controlling weight and losing weight are important considerations. Also, you should avoid intense physical activities as they can trigger gout attacks, but this doesn't mean no exercise at all; slow walking and swimming are fine.