Uric Acid Test. What Do the Results of a Uric Acid Test Mean?
Uric Acid Test
Are you considering getting a uric acid test? Learn What is the importance of monitoring uric acid levels? and how to prepare for your test.
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Uric acid test is a diagnostic tool used to measure the level of uric acid in the body. It can help diagnose conditions such as gout and kidney stones, as well as assess how your body is responding to certain treatments. Find out what you need to know about the test here.
What is a Uric Acid Test?
A uric acid test is a diagnostic tool used to measure the amount of uric acid in the blood or urine. Uric acid is a waste product created by the breakdown of cells in the body.
It is normally removed by the kidneys and released in the urine. High levels of uric acid can indicate a variety of medical conditions such as gout, renal failure, psoriasis, and leukemia.
The uric acid test is typically used to diagnose these conditions and to monitor levels of uric acid in the body.
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Why do I need a uric acid test?
A uric acid test is typically ordered when a doctor suspects high levels of uric acid in the blood. High levels of uric acid can indicate a number of conditions, such as:
- Gout.
- kidney failure.
- leukemia.
- Psoriasis.
- Other disorders.
The test can help in Monitoring uric acid levels in people who are having cancer chemotherapy or certain other cancer treatments. When cancer cells are rapidly killed by treatment, they release large amounts of purines into the blood. High uric acid levels can cause serious issues. Testing detects an increase in uric acid and allows it to be treated as soon as possible.
Uric acid levels can also be checked using a urine test, which measures the level of uric acid in the urine, or a serum test, which measures the level of uric acid in the blood.
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When is a Uric Acid Test Ordered?
A uric acid blood test may be required if you have gout symptoms. Symptoms typically manifest in one joint at a time. The big toe is the most commonly affected, but your other toes, ankle, or knee may also be affected. Symptoms include:
- Excruciating agony
- Swelling
- Redness
- Feeling warm.
- Certain cancer treatments have been or are being used.
A uric acid urine test may also be required if you have kidney stone symptoms such as:
- Sharp discomfort in your lower abdomen (belly), side, groyne, or back.
- bloody or cloudy urine.
- Urge to urinate frequently (pee).
- Being unable to urinate at all or only urinating infrequently.
- Urination discomfort.
What to Expect During a Uric Acid Test
When you go for the Uric Acid Test, you can expect to have your blood taken via or vein draw. The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory for testing. Depending on the type of test you are having, you may also have to provide a urine sample.
Both blood and urine samples are used to measure the levels of uric acid in your body. With the blood sample, the technician will be able to measure the amount of uric acid in your bloodstream. With the urine sample, the technician can measure how much of the uric acid is being filtered out by your kidneys.
After the collection of the samples, the technician will send them to the laboratory for further testing. The results of the test will be sent to your doctor’s office, and they will discuss the results with you.
How to Prepare for a Uric Acid Test
In order to ensure accurate results, it’s important to properly prepare for a uric acid test. The doctor will let you know if you should fast or stop taking certain medications before the test. Your doctor may also ask you to drink plenty of fluids the day before the test to help produce an adequate sample. It’s also important to tell your doctor about any other tests or procedures you’ve recently had, as these can all affect the results of a uric acid test.
Risks of a Uric Acid Test
A uric acid test is generally considered to be a safe procedure with minimal risks. However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects.
Some people may experience slight discomfort when the blood sample is taken, and there is a very small risk of infection at the site of the needle insertion. If you experience any side effects or discomfort, talk to your doctor or medical professional.
What Do the Results of a Uric Acid Test Mean?
The normal range of uric acid levels is typically between 3.5 mg/dL and 7.2 mg/dL. A uric acid test can determine whether your body produces too much, too little, or just the right amount of uric acid. Uric acid levels in the blood can indicate:
- Gout.
- Kidney disease.
- Leukemia, multiple myeloma, or cancer that has spread throughout your body (metastatic cancer)
- Side effects of certain cancer treatments
- Alcohol use disorder
- Preeclampsia, “high blood pressure in pregnant women”.
- You consume an excessive amount of purine-containing foods, such as:
- Organ meats, such as liver and kidney, and red meat
- Sardines, shellfish, anchovies, trout, and tuna.
- High fructose corn syrup is found in soda and candy.
Low uric acid levels in the blood are uncommon and usually do not cause health problems. Other tests are usually used to diagnose health conditions associated with low uric acid levels.
Low uric acid levels in urine may be associated with kidney disease, lead poisoning, or an alcohol use disorder.
Depending on the results, treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medications, or other interventions. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations based on the results of the Uric Acid Test. If you are experiencing any symptoms, it is important to discuss them with your doctor to ensure the best possible treatment plan.
Related tests
- Kidney functions.
- Calcium Blood Test
- Calcium in Urine Test
- Crystals in Urine
- Kidney Stone Analysis
- Synovial Fluid Analysis
Uric acid tests are an important tool for detecting and managing gout, renal failure, and other disorders. Knowing the answers to common questions can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your test.