Testing Uric Acid in the Blood and Its Reference Range
Uric acid is produced by the body from natural breakdown of body cells and some food stuff. It is excreted out of the body mainly by the kidneys, a small amount via the stools.
What Happens if Its Levels Are High?
If too much of this acid is being produced or if the kidneys are not able to excrete it out of the body, it forms lumps called tophi and gets deposited in joints and surrounding areas.
This leads to a painful joint problem called gout. It may also lead to kidney stone formation.
Normal Levels of Uric Acid in Blood
The reference range values are:
- Men: 3.4 – 7.0 mg/dL
- Women: 2.4 – 6.0 mg/dL
- Children: 2.5 – 5.5 mg/dL
Conditions Where This Test Is Recommended
- Diagnosing and treating gout
- Assessing kidney functions
- Assessing treatment of gout
- In patient of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, where cancer cells are destroyed in bulk and a lot of uric acid is produced.
- Treating kidney stones
The serum uric acid test is usually ordered along with other blood tests for kidney function.
Preparing for the Test
No prior preparation is required. Just inform your doctor about any medications being taken, as some medicines may interfere with the blood test.
Sir,
is taking Diacerein capsules IP 50 mg OD
safe for people suffering from kidney dysfunction. Please advice.
Yes, you may take the medicine. Just be particular that you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
The medicine is metabolized and excreted out via the kidneys. Drinking plenty of water would assure adequate flushing of its metabolites from the body.
Sir,
Nephrologist has advised to take not more than one liter of water daily in any form.
is this sufficient or can I increase water intake. Please advice.
Thanks.
One liter of water is alright.
If you have any underlying medical disease, like diabetes or hypertension, make sure that you keep it under control.