Uric Acid Levels: Implications for Women and Pregnancy

Q: Uric Acid Levels: Implications for Women and Pregnancy

Hello： The levels of uric acid in the blood are related to the following factors： 1. <br>Genetic predisposition： The genetic factors are located on the X chromosome, making males more susceptible to the condition. <br>This is not changeable later in life. <br>2. <br>Effective cir

Issues related to uric acid?

I am a 35-year-old woman.
Last month, I went to a laboratory for testing, and one of the results showed my uric acid level was 7, while the normal range is 3.0-5.5.
Everything else was fine.
The lab personnel only advised me to drink more water.
I later thought that my high uric acid might be due to my diet, as I eat a lot of meat and vegetables but not much rice, and I often go for hot pot.
If I become pregnant, will this affect me? Do I need to see a doctor and take medication?

a, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/23

Dr. Huang Hongshuo reply Family Medicine

Hello: The levels of uric acid in the blood are related to the following factors: 1.
Genetic predisposition: The genetic factors are located on the X chromosome, making males more susceptible to the condition.
This is not changeable later in life.
2.
Effective circulating volume in the body: Factors such as water intake, sweating, and the use of diuretics.
It is important to drink enough water to maintain smooth and ample urination, and to use diuretics cautiously.
3.
Kidney function: Poor kidney function makes it difficult to metabolize and excrete uric acid.
To maintain good kidney function, drink sufficient fluids, avoid overly salty foods, and manage blood pressure, blood sugar, uric acid, and cholesterol levels.
4.
High-purine foods: Foods such as bone broth, organ meats, seafood, soy products, bamboo shoots, bean sprouts, and mushrooms should not be consumed in large quantities.
5.
Exercise: Moderate exercise can help metabolize uric acid, but injuries such as sprains can easily trigger gout attacks.
Regular follow-ups are recommended to discuss the frequency of visits with your physician, whether every three months, six months, or annually, and to consult with a nutritionist about dietary content.

Reply Date: 2019/08/23

More Info

Understanding uric acid levels is crucial, especially for women considering pregnancy or those who are already pregnant. Uric acid is a waste product formed from the natural breakdown of purines, which are found in certain foods, particularly meats, seafood, and some vegetables. Normal uric acid levels typically range from 3.0 to 5.5 mg/dL for women, and levels above this range can indicate a condition known as hyperuricemia.

In your case, with a uric acid level of 7 mg/dL, you are above the normal range. While it is true that high uric acid levels can lead to health issues such as gout, kidney stones, and other complications, it is also important to consider the implications of elevated uric acid levels during pregnancy.
During pregnancy, the body undergoes numerous physiological changes, including alterations in metabolism and renal function, which can affect uric acid levels. Elevated uric acid levels during pregnancy can be associated with conditions such as preeclampsia and gestational hypertension, which can pose risks to both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, it is essential to monitor uric acid levels closely if you are planning to conceive or are already pregnant.

Your dietary habits, particularly your consumption of meat and avoidance of carbohydrates like rice, may contribute to your elevated uric acid levels. Foods high in purines can lead to increased uric acid production. It is advisable to adopt a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while moderating your intake of high-purine foods. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also crucial, as it helps to dilute uric acid in the bloodstream and promotes its excretion through the kidneys.

Regarding whether you need to see a doctor or take medication, it is highly recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional, particularly an obstetrician or a specialist in maternal-fetal medicine. They can provide personalized advice based on your overall health, dietary habits, and any other medical conditions you may have. They may recommend lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, or, in some cases, medication to help manage your uric acid levels effectively.

In summary, while your elevated uric acid level may not pose an immediate threat, it is essential to address it proactively, especially if you are considering pregnancy. Regular monitoring, dietary adjustments, and consultation with a healthcare provider will help ensure that both you and your future child remain healthy. Remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to managing uric acid levels and supporting a successful pregnancy.

Similar Q&A

Is Low Uric Acid a Concern? Understanding Risks During Pregnancy

Hello, our organization recently provided health check-ups for employees, and the result for the uric acid test was 1.9 mg/dL. I understand that high uric acid levels can pose risks such as gout, but are there issues with low levels as well? I am currently pregnant and am concern...

Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Pregnant women: Uric acid is primarily produced from the metabolism of purine-rich foods (such as legumes, organ meats, and seafood). Low uric acid levels may indicate insufficient intake of purine-rich foods, rapid renal metabolism, or imbalanced nutrient intake. Therefore, it i...

Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: Health Impacts and Dietary Solutions

The blood test results indicate a total cholesterol level of 201, triglycerides at 69, blood urea nitrogen at 11.4, creatinine at 0.9, and uric acid at 7.5. Elevated uric acid levels can lead to health issues such as gout, which is characterized by painful joint inflammation, and...

Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hyperuricemia can lead to gout, but the likelihood of a gout attack due to mild elevations in uric acid is low. Avoiding high-purine foods can help lower uric acid levels in the blood. High-purine foods include organ meats, seafood, legumes, and meat gravies.

Understanding Uric Acid Levels: Diet and Gout Risk Factors Explained

My husband had a blood test a few days ago, and the report showed his uric acid level is 7.0 (with the normal upper limit being 7.0). I would like to ask: 1. Does he need further testing, or can we manage this with dietary control (he enjoys eating meat and barbecued foods)? 2. H...

Dr. Yang Guojun reply Internal Medicine
Gout has arrived with winter, and many people eagerly anticipate the snowfall, hoping to go to the mountains to enjoy the snow and build snowmen. However, some individuals worry that their painful old ailment, "gout," may strike again. Regardless of social status, the i...

Understanding Abnormal Health Check Results: High Uric Acid and Cholesterol Levels

The test results show several abnormalities. What could these indicate? Uric acid (UA) is 9.7 mg/dL and total cholesterol (T-CHOL) is 241 mg/dL.

Dr. Chen Qingbin reply Internal Medicine
Your uric acid and total cholesterol levels are elevated. This may be due to excessive consumption of meat, fried foods, and organ meats. You should reduce your intake of fried foods, organ meats, egg yolks, and fatty meats, while increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetab...