Lab report
Uric acid: normal range and what your result means
Also called uric acid, gout test, ua
What this test measures
Uric acid is a waste product. A high level can cause gout (sudden painful joint swelling) and kidney stones.
Uric acid ranges for adults
Women
| Result (mg/dL) | What it means |
|---|---|
| under 2.4 | LowA low uric acid is rarely a concern. |
| 2.4 to 6.0 | NormalYour uric acid is in the normal range. |
| 6.1 to 9.9 | HighYour uric acid is high. Diet changes help; see a doctor if you have joint pain. |
| 10 and above | Very highYour uric acid is very high. Please see a doctor about treatment. |
Men
| Result (mg/dL) | What it means |
|---|---|
| under 3.4 | LowA low uric acid is rarely a concern. |
| 3.4 to 7.0 | NormalYour uric acid is in the normal range. |
| 7.1 to 9.9 | HighYour uric acid is high. Diet changes help; see a doctor if you have joint pain. |
| 10 and above | Very highYour uric acid is very high. Please see a doctor about treatment. |
Labs use slightly different ranges. Always compare with the range printed on your own report.
What helps
- Drink plenty of water.
- Cut down red meat, organ meat, seafood, alcohol (especially beer) and sweet drinks.
- Lose weight slowly if you are overweight.
Talk to a doctor if
- Your uric acid is high and you have joint pain or swelling
- You have had kidney stones
The right doctor for this
Rheumatologist
Show your report to a doctor online and get a clear plan. If you are not sure who to see, a general physician is always a safe place to start.