Uric acid is a waste product that is created when the body breaks down purines, which occur naturally in the body and in certain foods and drinks. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood, passes through the kidneys, and leaves the body in urine. However, if the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys excrete too little uric acid, uric acid can build up in the blood and form sharp, needle-like urate crystals in a joint or surrounding tissue, causing pain, inflammation, and swelling. This condition is called gout.

Factors that can increase the uric acid level in the body and cause hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels) include:

• Diet: Eating a diet rich in red meat, shellfish, and beverages sweetened with fruit sugar (fructose) can increase levels of uric acid, which increases the risk of gout.
• Certain health conditions: Cancer, kidney disease, hypothyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis, and metabolic syndrome can cause high levels of uric acid.
• Medications: Diuretics (water pills), aspirin, and niacin can increase uric acid levels.

Other factors that may increase the risk of developing gout include being male, having obesity, having certain health conditions such as hypertension, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes, and drinking alcohol.