Why does the legs swell to the feet due to rising uric acid levels?Image Credit Source: Predrag Popovski/Moment/Getty Images
Uric acid is a type of waste product present in the body, which is formed on the breakdown of the element called purine. Purine is found in our body’s cells and some food items like red meat, sea food, beer and pulses. In general, this acid dissolves in the blood and goes out through the urine through the kidney. But when this process is not done properly or a large amount of purine starts forming in the body, then uric acid starts accumulating in the blood. Its excess is called hyperycmia. If it is not controlled in time, then it causes serious problems like joint pain, swelling and arthritis.
There can be many reasons behind the increase in uric acid. Excessive protein -rich food, alcohol intake, overweight, diabetes, high BP and kidney function are the main reasons. Apart from this, prolonged intake of some medicines or genetic factor can also increase uric acid levels. People who lack exercise in their routine or those who eat highly processed food also increase the risk. Its danger has been seen more in women after menopause in women. Apart from this, people who already have arthritis, obesity or kidney problems need to be specially cautious with the increased amount of uric acid.
Why does the feet swell due to increasing uric acid,
Dr. Akhilesh Yadav in Orthopedic Department at Max Hospital It is said that when the level of uric acid increases in the blood, then it starts freezing in the form of small crystals in the body. These crystals accumulate especially in joints, causing swelling, irritation and severe pain there. This problem is first seen in the joint of the toe, but over time it can also spread to the ankles, knees and fingers. This is called gout in medical language.
Increasing uric acid is stiffness in the legs, problems in walking and inflammation are common symptoms. Apart from this, it can also cause a stone to become a stone in the kidney. Many times the excessive level of uric acid also increases the possibility of high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. In such a situation, its rising level should not be ignored.
How to control,
Drink plenty of water daily so that uric acid comes out through urine.
Avoid more purin things.
Keep weight control and exercise daily.
Take low fat and high fiber diet.
Avoid alcohol and sweet drinks.
Keep getting blood tests done from time to time with the advice of the doctor.
If needed, uric acid can also be controlled through medicine.