Description

A uric acid test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood or urine. Uric acid is a waste product created when your body breaks down purines, which come from dying cells and some foods and beverages. A uric acid test may be used for: Diagnosing gout: High levels of uric acid can cause gout. Monitoring chemotherapy patients: Cancer treatments can increase uric acid levels, so a uric acid test can help ensure levels don't get too high. Checking for kidney stones: High levels of uric acid in the urine can cause kidney stones. Monitoring people with gout: A uric acid test can help determine the best medicine to lower uric acid levels. To prepare for a uric acid test, you may need to: Avoid eating or drinking for 4 hours before the test Stop taking certain medicines that may affect the test results Avoid alcoholic drinks, vitamin C, and x-ray dye A normal uric acid level is typically between 2.5–7.0 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) in males and 1.5–6.0 mg/dL in females. However, each lab has a different normal range and your doctor will also consider your age, health, and other factors when interpreting your results.

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