Uric Acid Blood Test UK

What is a uric acid blood test?

This test assesses the amount of uric acid in your bloodstream. Elevated levels may indicate conditions such as gout. Maintaining a uric acid level between 3.5 and 7.2 mg/dl is essential for overall health.

Why should you consider undergoing uric acid testing?

If you’re experiencing joint pain, suspect gout, or are undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy, a uric acid test may be necessary to monitor your health. At Private Blood Test London, we offer a range of blood tests, including uric acid assessments, to clarify your health concerns.

Why should you get tested?

There are several key reasons to assess uric acid levels:

• Pre-eclampsia Assessments: Uric acid measurements can also form part of evaluations during pregnancy.
• Diagnose Kidney Stones: Elevated uric acid in urine can indicate the cause of kidney stones.
• Monitor Treatment: If you are undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy, uric acid testing helps to ensure levels remain within a safe range.
• Prevent Stone Formation: Individuals with gout or a history of kidney stones may benefit from regular monitoring.
• Detect Gout: High uric acid levels can signal gout, a painful joint condition.

What does the test measure?

Uric acid is a by-product of purine metabolism. Purines are nitrogen-containing compounds found in your body and certain foods and beverages, such as organ meats, beer, and wine. Normally, uric acid is filtered by the kidneys and excreted through urine. However, when levels become too high, it can lead to issues such as gout or kidney stones.

When should the test be performed?

• If you are diagnosed with gout or are at risk of kidney stone formation.
• If kidney stones are recurring
• During radiotherapy or chemotherapy to monitor treatment effects.
• When experiencing joint pain or symptoms associated with gout.

Test procedure and preparation

• Preparation: Generally, no specific preparation is needed. However, some institutions recommend fasting before the test. Please follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Sample Required: A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm or a 24-hour urine collection. Our medical professionals will advise you on the most appropriate method for your needs.

Understanding your results

High levels of uric acid in the blood (hyperuricaemia) may result from overproduction or inadequate excretion by the kidneys. Common causes include:

• Fluctuating Levels: Uric acid levels may vary daily or seasonally. Doctors often recommend multiple tests over time to comprehensively understand your uric acid levels.
• Decreased Excretion: Alcoholism, kidney disease, acidosis, and pre-eclampsia during pregnancy.
• Kidney Stones: Excess uric acid can also lead to the formation of crystals in the kidneys.
• Gout: High uric acid levels can cause crystal formation in joints, leading to inflammation and pain. While hyperuricaemia is a significant risk factor for gout, it does not confirm or rule out the condition on its own.
• Increased Production of uric acid: Conditions like multiple myeloma, metastatic cancers, or certain treatments such as chemotherapy.

Monitoring and treatment

If your uric acid levels are high:

• Long-term Management: Medications like allopurinol (to reduce uric acid production) or probenecid (to increase excretion) may be prescribed.
• Gout Attacks: Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen may provide short-term relief.

Lifestyle changes can also help manage uric acid levels:

• Avoid fasting and strenuous exercise, which can raise uric acid levels.
• Reduce alcohol consumption, as it hinders uric acid elimination.
• Avoid purine-rich foods (e.g., organ meats, anchovies, sardines).

Get Tested Today

At Private Blood Test London, we provide fast and reliable uric acid testing services. Our experienced professionals are here to guide you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do abnormal results mean?

High uric acid levels may indicate gout, kidney stones, or other underlying health issues. However, the results must be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests. Can uric acid levels be managed without medication?

In some cases, lifestyle changes may be sufficient. However, if medication is necessary, your doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

When is the test requested?

Doctors typically order the test if you have symptoms of gout, recurrent kidney stones, or require monitoring during certain medical treatments.

How is the test used?

Uric acid tests are performed to:

• Detect gout.
• Monitor uric acid levels during cancer treatments.
• Determine the cause of recurrent kidney stones.