The kidneys filter out most of the uric acid from the body, which is then disposed of in urine. Uric acid tests are carried out for the purpose of checking and monitoring levels of the acid in the body to ensure all is as it should be. When there is too much uric acid in the blood, it can cause painful instanced of gout. If left untreated, excessive uric acid can also lead to kidney failure or kidney stones.
Normal Level of Uric Acid
Most labs that carry out uric acid test will have slightly different definitions of low, normal and high levels of uric acid in the blood. As such, the information here and all you come across online should be interpreted as a guide only. It will be the decision of your doctor as to whether or not your levels are in the safer regions.
| Men |
3.4 to 7.0 Milligrams per Deciliter |
202 to 416 Micromoles per Liter |
| Women |
2.4 to 6.0 Milligrams per Deciliter |
143 to 347 Micromoles per Liter |
| Children |
2.0 to 5.5 Milligrams per Deciliter |
119 to 327 Micromoles per Liter |
High Level of Uric Acid
High levels of uric acid have the potential to cause health problems, though again it will be up to your doctor to decide whether your levels are high or otherwise. In some individuals, even normal or low levels of uric acid can lead to problems, while others are unaffected from high levels.
There are various different factors that can lead to a high level of uric acid in the bloodstream, which include among others:
- Kidney damage or kidney disease
- Alcoholism
- Obesity
- Hypothyroidism
- Lead Poisoning
- Malnutrition
- Gene Disorders
- Certain Medications
- Cancer Treatments
- A Diet Rich in Purines
Low Level of Uric Acid
Unusually low uric acid levels can also be unhealthy for the body and again have a wide range of triggers, which include:
- Certain Cancer Types
- Liver Disease
- Wilson’s Disease
- Protein Deficiencies
More Facts about Uric Acid
- Just because your uric acid levels are higher than normal, this does not mean that you will get gout or in fact suffer any negative symptoms whatsoever.
- The standard uric acid test will be carried out by taking a blood sample, though this may also be followed by a urine test to determine how much acid is being expelled this way.
- The levels of uric acid in your blood change significantly during the day and from day to day. As such, it may be necessary to take more than one test for a comprehensive result.