A higher concentration of uric acid in the blood is called hyperuricemia; it can be caused by overproduction of uric acid in the body or by a decrease in the elimination of uric acid by the kidneys. Hyperuricemia is most well-known for causing episodes of gout. Gout occurs when there is a large amount of uric acid. The acid precipitates in the form of crystals which are then deposited in the joints, such as the big toe, ankle or knee.
For this reason, your doctor will order a blood test for you (called uricemia) and/or a urine uric acid test in order to better understand the source of high uric acid levels in the blood.
Depending on the results, your doctor will review potential solutions with you.