High uric acid levels can trigger gout, a condition common in Indonesia, especially among adult men. When a gout flare occurs, joints can feel hot, red, and swollen. So, what causes gout and what signs should you watch for?

Signs of High Uric Acid Levels

Uric acid forms naturally as the body breaks down purines. At normal levels, uric acid acts as an antioxidant and supports cell renewal. When uric acid metabolism is disrupted, excess crystals accumulate and cause joint pain and discomfort. In Indonesia, this condition is often called “asam urat” or uric acid. The medical term of high uric acid levels is hyperuricemia.

Several typical signs include joint pain and difficulty walking at night. The pain may rise quickly, with a burning sensation and redness of the skin around the joint. Areas most often affected if you have gout are the big toe, ankle, knee, and fingers.

Other signs to note if you have hyperuricemia include pain, swelling, scaling, peeling, and itching. While symptoms may fade on their own, treatment and medical tests are still needed to prevent recurrence and more severe problems. High uric acid levels are linked to obesity or excess weight, stress, diabetes mellitus, and kidney disease.

Natural Ways to Manage Gout

Symptoms of high uric acid levels usually appear during an acute gout attack or when the condition is in a chronic phase. Gout attacks tend to come on suddenly and often strike at night. Gout pain can last several days and disrupt daily activities.

Gout usually cannot be completely cured. The treatment usually focuses on controlling symptoms so pain does not interfere with your daily activities. In most cases, a doctor will perform tests and prescribe medicines to lower uric acid levels, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory drugs to ease joint pain.

In addition to medicines from your doctor, people with high uric acid levels can try these natural approaches to manage gout:

1. Reduce Consumption of Foods High in Purines

Gout arises when purines break down and uric acid builds up. If your uric acid levels are high, avoid triggers such as spinach, asparagus, red meat, milk, organ meats, sardines, and sugary foods and drinks, including alcoholic beverages. For a safe menu plan, consult a nutritionist and your doctor.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Alongside a balanced diet, keep an active routine with regular exercise. Excess body weight makes it harder for the kidneys to clear uric acid. Avoid extreme dieting or over-exercising, since drastic weight shifts can also raise uric acid levels. Aim for steady habits, with more physical activities and balanced eating habits.

3. Manage Stress Effectively

If stress is hard to handle, learn relaxation techniques, meditation, or yoga. Stay off gadgets before bedtime and cut back on coffee late in the day to support restful sleep. If helpful, use aromatherapy to calm the mind and reduce stress.

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