What Are Uric Acid Crystals?
Uric acid crystals, also known as gout crystals, are sharp, needle-like structures that form when uric acid levels remain high over time.
Uric acid crystals as seen using a microscope
For illustrative purposes only
How Do Uric Acid Crystals Form?
When uric acid is produced faster than your body can get rid of it, the uric acid builds up in your blood and can cause crystals to form in certain parts of the body, including:
Joints
Tissues
Kidneys
Download the “Gout Affects More Than Your Joints” Resource to see how other parts of the body are impacted.
The Connection Between Pain, Uric Acid Crystals, and Gout Flares
If enough uric acid crystals build up in certain parts of your body, some symptoms you might experience include:
Pain, redness, and/or swelling contained to one or more joints, known as gout flares
For illustrative purposes only
The pain caused by gout flares is often considered to be the most severe of these symptoms, sometimes to a point where normal activity becomes difficult. Gout flares may also occur more frequently if concentrations of uric acid crystals in the body remain high.
Actor portrayal
How to Dissolve Uric Acid Crystals
How to Dissolve Uric Acid Crystals
If you’re able to lower your uric acid levels, uric acid crystals may begin to dissolve naturally. That’s why addressing the uric acid itself can be an effective way to treat uric acid crystals and to prevent future buildups.
When it comes to medical treatment, both short-term and long-term options are available.
Short-term treatments
are used to help manage the pain associated with gout.
Long-term treatments
are used to reduce high uric acid levels.