Uric acid facts for kids
Uric acid is a natural chemical that your body makes. It's a waste product that forms when your body breaks down certain things found in foods and cells. You might hear about it because too much uric acid can sometimes cause health problems.
Animals like reptiles and birds get rid of uric acid as a way to excrete waste. It's a special type of chemical compound made of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen. Its chemical formula is C5H4N4O3. When uric acid mixes with other things, it can form substances called urates and acid urates.
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What is Uric Acid?
Uric acid is a chemical that is created when your body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are found naturally in your body's cells and in many foods you eat, like red meat, seafood, and some alcoholic drinks.
After your body uses the purines, uric acid is left over. Most of this uric acid dissolves in your blood. Then, it travels to your kidneys, which filter it out. Finally, it leaves your body when you go to the bathroom.
Uric Acid and Your Health
Sometimes, your body might make too much uric acid, or your kidneys might not get rid of enough of it. When this happens, uric acid can build up in your blood. High levels of uric acid can lead to certain health issues.
Gout: When Uric Acid Builds Up
One common problem caused by too much uric acid is a condition called gout. Gout happens when uric acid forms tiny, sharp crystals. These crystals can settle in your joints, especially in your big toe. This causes sudden, severe pain, swelling, and redness. It can be very uncomfortable.
Kidney Stones and Other Issues
High amounts of uric acid can also lead to other health concerns. For example, it can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Kidney stones are hard, pebble-like pieces that can form in your kidneys. They can cause pain when they try to pass through your urinary system.
Some studies also suggest a link between high uric acid levels and other medical conditions, such as diabetes. However, more research is always being done to understand these connections fully.
Animals and Uric Acid
While humans mostly excrete waste as urine, many animals, especially birds and reptiles, get rid of their nitrogen waste as uric acid. This is a very efficient way for them to save water. Instead of a liquid, their waste often comes out as a white, pasty substance. A well-known example of this is Guano, which is the droppings of seabirds and bats, rich in uric acid.
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In Spanish: Ácido úrico para niños
