Our Uric Acid Test identifies whether you have abnormal uric acid levels in your blood. Uric acid is a normal waste product in your blood. The body makes uric acid when it breaks down purines, substances found in the cells of the body and in the food we eat. Most uric acid dissolves in the blood, travels to the kidneys, and is removed from the body in urine. However, if too much uric acid builds up in the blood it can form into crystals in the joints, causing gout, a common and complex form of arthritis. These crystals can also settle into the kidneys and form kidney stones, or in extreme cases, cause kidney failure. This test measures the level of uric acid in your blood, which is useful for diagnosing and monitoring gout and kidney stones.
What is tested?
Our Uric Acid Test detects levels of uric acid in the blood. Healthcare providers use this test to help screen for, diagnose, or monitor certain health conditions, such as gout, kidney disease, or the effects of certain medications.
Uric acid is a normal waste product created when the body breaks down certain substances known as purines The body’s cells use purines to form the building blocks for DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acids), which carry the essential genetic instructions for life.
High levels of purines are also found in certain foods, such as liver, anchovies, codfish, sardines, dried beans, and alcoholic beverages, particularly beer. Consuming these foods may cause an increase in uric acid levels within the body. In most cases, uric acid is transported through the bloodstream to the kidneys, where it is filtered and eliminated from the body through urine. Sometimes the body produces too much uric acid, or the kidneys cannot eliminate it effectively, resulting in the formation of crystals in certain joints, causing gout. Abnormally high uric acid levels can also cause kidney stones, renal failure, or other health conditions.
Signs & Symptoms
Abnormally high levels of uric acid (hyperuricemia) can be present without causing any apparent signs and symptoms (asymptomatic) or may cause a range of signs and symptoms, such as:
Contact a physician if severe symptoms occur.
Eligibility
Our Uric Acid Test is for anyone who wants to measure their uric acid. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase.
Preparing For Your Test
You do not need to do anything special to prepare for the sample collection. Fasting is not required for this test.
After The Test
When your results are ready, we will send them to you in a clear, easy-to-read report. You will have the option to speak with an independent physician to discuss your results. If your results differ from the expected ranges, you may receive an alert call to inform you.
