Gout is a common metabolic disease that is mainly caused by high levels of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is one of the body's metabolites, and under normal circumstances, uric acid is excreted from the body through the kidneys and maintained within a certain range. However, when uric acid excretion is blocked or produced excessively, uric acid levels can rise, causing gout. So, how much uric acid is "gout"?Experts believe that uric acid concentrations exceed 68 mg dl (milligram deciliter) is enough to diagnose gout.
The main symptoms of gout are joint pain and inflammation, especially in the joints of the feet, such as the big toe joint. During a gout attack, the patient will feel severe pain, swelling, redness, warmth, and even the inability to walk normally. In addition, gout may also trigger the deposition of uric acid crystals in the kidneys and urinary tract system, leading to urinary tract stones and kidney damage. Therefore, early detection and control of uric acid levels is essential to prevent the occurrence of gout.
Experts point out that the increase in uric acid levels is mainly related to diet and lifestyle habits. High-purine foods are one of the main causes of elevated uric acid, such as organ meats, seafood, meat, etc. In addition, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of exercise, long-term use of certain medications (such as diuretics, aspirin, etc.) can also increase uric acid levels. Therefore, to prevent the occurrence of gout, we need to pay attention to the following:
First and foremost, a sensible diet is the key to preventing gout. Reducing your intake of high-purine foods and increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C can help lower uric acid levels. In addition, it is also very important to drink water in moderation to promote the excretion of uric acid.
Secondly, maintaining a proper weight and doing moderate exercise are also important measures to prevent gout. Obesity is one of the risk factors for elevated uric acid levels, so maintaining an appropriate weight is essential to control uric acid levels. In addition, moderate exercise can boost metabolism and help in the excretion of uric acid.
Again, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and long-term use of certain medications are also important strategies for gout prevention. Alcohol interferes with the metabolism and excretion of uric acid, and as a result, excessive alcohol consumption can increase uric acid levels. Certain medications, such as diuretics and aspirin, can also affect the excretion of uric acid, so be cautious when using these medications and follow your doctor's recommendations.
Finally, regular testing of uric acid levels is also an important means of preventing gout. By regularly measuring uric acid levels, elevated uric acid can be detected at an early stage and appropriate measures can be taken to intervene. For patients who have already been diagnosed with gout, regular testing of uric acid levels can help monitor changes in their condition and adjust their regimen**.
In conclusion, a certain level of uric acid is required to be diagnosed as gout, but we should take appropriate precautions before the uric acid level rises. We can effectively prevent gout by eating right, maintaining an appropriate weight, exercising moderately, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and long-term use of certain medications, and regularly checking uric acid levels. Let's take care of uric acid levels together and protect our health.