High Uric Acid Levels: Symptoms, Causes, and Health Risks Uric acid is a waste product created when the body breaks down purines, which are found in certain foods and naturally occurring in the body. Normally, uric acid is filtered by the kidneys and excreted through urine. However, when uric acid levels become too high (a condition called hyperuricemia), it can lead to health complications, including gout, kidney stones, and metabolic issues. Symptoms of High Uric Acid Levels In many cases, high uric acid levels do not cause noticeable symptoms. However, when they do, symptoms may include: Joint Pain and Swelling (Gout) Sudden, severe pain, often in the big toe, knees, or ankles Redness, warmth, and tenderness in affected joints Pain that worsens at night or after consuming purine-rich foods Kidney Stones Sharp pain in the lower back or abdomen Frequent urge to urinate, sometimes with pain Blood in urine due to kidney stone movement Skin Deposits (Tophi Formation) Hard lumps und...