Lab results explained
High uric acid: what your result means
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Short answer: Uric acid is usually considered high above 7.0 mg/dL (about 416 µmol/L) in men and above 6.0 mg/dL (about 357 µmol/L) in women. High uric acid can lead to gout or kidney stones, but many people with a raised level never have symptoms. Diet, alcohol, weight, kidney function and some medicines all affect it.
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Typical adult range
Your lab may print a slightly different range. Use the one on your report when there is one.
| Test | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Uric acid | 3.4–7 mg/dL202–416 µmol/L | 2.4–6 mg/dL143–357 µmol/L |
| Creatinine | 0.74–1.35 mg/dL65.4–119 µmol/L | 0.59–1.04 mg/dL52.2–91.9 µmol/L |
What uric acid is
Uric acid is a waste product made when your body breaks down purines. Purines come from your own cells and from foods such as red meat, organ meats, some seafood and beer. Most uric acid leaves the body through the kidneys in urine. When the body makes too much or the kidneys remove too little, the level in the blood rises. Reports may label it S. uric acid or serum urate and show it in mg/dL or µmol/L. To convert, multiply mg/dL by about 59.5.
Common causes of high uric acid
Often more than one factor is involved. A single high result after a heavy meal, a night of drinking or a day of not drinking enough water may be lower on a repeat test. Your creatinine result helps show whether the kidneys are part of the reason, since weaker kidneys clear less uric acid. Your doctor may also ask about family history and past joint pain.
- Diet rich in red meat, organ meats, shellfish or sugary drinks
- Alcohol, especially beer and spirits
- Overweight, high blood pressure or diabetes
- Reduced kidney function or dehydration
- Some medicines, such as water tablets (diuretics)
- Family history of gout
Gout, kidney stones and no symptoms at all
When uric acid stays high, crystals can form in joints and cause gout. A gout attack usually comes on quickly, often at night, with a hot, red, swollen and very painful joint. The big toe is the classic place, but ankles, knees and fingers can be affected. Uric acid crystals can also form kidney stones, which cause severe pain in the side or back. Many people with high uric acid never get either problem. Uric acid can also read normal during a gout attack, so the blood number alone does not prove or rule out gout.
What usually happens next
If you feel well and this is a first result, your doctor may simply repeat the test and look at your kidney function, blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol. Many doctors do not prescribe medicine for high uric acid without gout or stones, but advice differs, so ask about your own case. Lifestyle steps such as drinking enough water, cutting down on alcohol and sugary drinks, and losing weight if needed can help. If you have had gout attacks, your doctor may suggest medicine to lower uric acid over time.
When to get help the same day
Get same-day medical care for a hot, swollen, very painful joint, especially with fever, as this can be an infected joint rather than gout. Also get same-day care for severe side or back pain with fever, vomiting or very little urine. If you have chest pain, trouble breathing or collapse, call your local emergency number.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Is my uric acid high enough to need treatment, or should we repeat it?
- Do my kidney results explain the high level?
- Could any of my medicines be raising my uric acid?
- What changes to food and drink would help most in my case?
- Should I be checked for kidney stones?
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Frequently asked questions
Does high uric acid always mean gout?
No. Gout is diagnosed from symptoms and sometimes from testing fluid from the joint. Many people with high uric acid never develop gout. A doctor looks at your symptoms, the joint and your test results together.
Which foods raise uric acid?
Red meat, organ meats such as liver, some seafood, beer and drinks sweetened with sugar or fructose are the main ones. Plain water, low-fat dairy, vegetables and whole grains are generally fine. A dietitian can help you plan meals you enjoy.
What uric acid level is normal for women?
On this checker the usual range for women is 2.4 to 6.0 mg/dL. Women tend to have lower levels than men before menopause, and levels often rise after menopause.
Can high uric acid harm the kidneys?
Very high uric acid can lead to kidney stones and is linked with kidney disease, but the link runs both ways because weak kidneys also raise uric acid. Your doctor will check your creatinine and eGFR to see how your kidneys are working.
Sources
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