Uric acid: Joint pain and swelling are occurring in winter. Find out what disease it is caused by and which tests to get done

If you experience joint pain, swelling, or difficulty walking during the winter, it's important to pay attention. This could be a symptom of increased uric acid levels. 

People who already have this condition may experience more problems during the winter. People tend to drink less water in the winter than in the summer. 

This prevents proper uric acid elimination, leading to increased levels. Eating patterns also change during this season, which is considered a major cause of increased uric acid levels.

Professor Dr. Subhash Giri, Director of the Department of Medicine at RML Hospital in Delhi, explains that in winter, people eat more meat, eggs, and dried fruits. 

These contain purines, which increase uric acid levels . Physical activity during this season is less common than in summer. This slows metabolism and causes uric acid to accumulate. 

In some cases, uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, causing joint pain, aches, or difficulty walking. For those who already have these conditions, the problem worsens.

What are the symptoms of increased uric acid?

1. Sudden severe pain in the toe
2. Sudden sharp pain in the knees
3. swollen joints
4. Difficulty walking when waking up in the morning

Risk of developing gout

Dr. Subhash explains that if uric acid levels remain elevated for a long time, it can lead to gout. This condition causes severe joint pain. 

Treatment requires careful diet and a course of medication. Therefore, it's important to consult a doctor and get your uric acid tested if you experience any symptoms of high uric acid.

How to control uric acid in winter?

1. Do not let the body become dehydrated even in winter.
2. Stay away from red meat and kidney beans
3. Limit High-Purine Foods
4. Stay away from alcohol
5. Do light exercise and stretching

Uric acid
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