Uric acid test: normal range, high uric acid and gout
Medically reviewed by Dr. N. S. Santosh Varma, MBBS, FIM, FIDM, FICCM · Reg. APMC/FMR 112686 · Updated the day of publishing
A uric acid test measures a waste product made when the body breaks down purines. Commonly used ranges are about 3.4–7.0 mg/dL for men and 2.4–6.0 mg/dL for women. High uric acid can cause gout, a painful joint swelling often in the big toe, and is linked to kidney stones. Many people with high uric acid have no symptoms.
Normal range
| Group | Commonly used range |
|---|---|
| Men | about 3.4–7.0 mg/dL |
| Women | about 2.4–6.0 mg/dL |
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, by age and by sex; always read the range printed on your own report and ask a doctor to interpret it.
Common reasons for high uric acid
- Alcohol, especially beer
- Red meat, organ meat and some seafood
- Sugary drinks with fructose
- Excess weight, diabetes, high blood pressure
- Kidney disease and some medicines such as diuretics
Preparation
- Some labs ask for 4 hours of fasting; follow the instruction
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meat meals the day before
Is it included in YIRA's checkup?
This test is not part of YIRA's 70-test checkup. The doctor consultation included in every YIRA Family Health Plan can advise whether you need it, based on your results and history.
A YIRA Family Health Plan includes a 70-test full body checkup at home for one registered member, a doctor consultation for the family, a review of an elder's past reports, and dental and eye check-ups. Essential ₹999 a year (up to 4 family members registered); Complete ₹1,299 a year (up to 8, with ₹5 lakh accident cover for the buyer).
70-test checkup at home plus family care, from ₹999 a year
Essential ₹999 (one 70-test checkup, up to 4 family members registered) · Complete ₹1,299 (up to 8, with ₹5 lakh accident cover). Doctor consultation, dental and eye check-ups included. Pay after sample collection.
Frequently asked questions
Does high uric acid always mean gout?
No. Many people with high uric acid never get gout. Treatment depends on symptoms and other conditions.
What foods raise uric acid?
Alcohol, red and organ meat, some seafood and sugary drinks. A doctor can advise on diet.
Is uric acid tested in a kidney function test?
Some labs include it in a kidney profile. Check the test list of your package.
Related
Medically reviewed by Dr. N. S. Santosh Varma (MBBS, FIM, FIDM, FICCM; APMC/FMR 112686). Prepared by the YIRA health team · Last updated 1 October 2026. This page is general health information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges differ between labs; always discuss your results with a doctor. In an emergency, call 108 or go to the nearest hospital.