If you start suddenly swollen in the legs, especially the thumb or near the ankles, and the pain in walking, then it cannot be only the effect of fatigue or cold. This may be a sign of increasing uric acid level, which affects the joints of the body.

According to experts, if the amount of uric acid in the body is not controlled, it gradually starts accumulating in the joints, causing problems such as swelling, pain and irritation. Let us know how this process takes place, which people are more at risk and how can it be controlled.

What is uric acid?
Uric acid is an waste product formed by the breakdown of an element called purine. Purine is found naturally in our food and body cells. Under normal conditions it goes out through urin, but when its volume increases or the body is not able to exclude it properly, it starts freezing in the blood.

Why does the feet swell?
When there is excess of uric acid in the body, it goes into joints and accumulates in small crystals. The first effect is seen in the toes, ankles and knees. This situation is called Gout.

Senior rheumatologist says,
“Gout is a type of arthritis, which is caused by high uric acid. Its first symptom is – rapid swelling and pain in the legs at night or in the morning, especially in the joint of the thumb.”

Which people are more in danger?
More non -vegetarian people

Regular consumption of beer and alcohol

Person suffering from obesity and high BP

People struggling with kidney problem

People adopting sedentary lifestyle

Purine -rich foods such as red meat, seafood, gram, rajma, spinach

How to control uric acid?

1. Improvement in catering
Limit the amount of purine -rich foods

Drink more water – at least 2.5 to 3 liters a day

Include fruits and green vegetables, especially cucumber, watermelon, and papaya in the diet

Avoid alcohol, red meat and more oil-spices

2. Keep the weight under control
Obesity can increase uric acid levels. Keep weight under control with regular exercise and balanced food.

3. Consumption of medicines with the advice of expert
If uric acid levels are very high, doctors may prescribe drugs such as allopurinol or febuxostat. Do not take them without doctor’s advice.

4. Take care of kidney health
Because uric acid is emitted through the kidney, it is necessary to maintain its functionality. Regular checks and hydration helps in this.

When to see a doctor?
If there is a persistent swelling in the feet

Feeling pain or tightness in walking

Joints have redness, warmth and irritation

Uric acid reports come more than 7.0 Mg/DL

Not sweating even in summer: Is there a sign of serious illness? Learn expert opinion