BY Dr Xiaoyun Si, China Medical Team in NRH of Solomon Islands
Dr Xiaoyun Si, Medical Ph.D. & M.D. Chief physician, Department of Cardiology Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University (GMU)
HYPERURICEMIA and coronary heart disease are two non-communicable conditions that share a notable and interconnected relationship. Hyperuricemia occurs when there is an excessive presence of uric acid in the bloodstream, while coronary heart disease affects the arteries supplying blood to the heart, potentially leading to myocardial ischemia. In this discussion, we will talk about the connection between these conditions and the medical implications they have for our overall health.
Coronary heart disease develops when insufficient blood reaches the heart due to blockages in the coronary arteries. This condition is often referred to as coronary artery disease and is the most prevalent type of heart disease. The primary symptom of coronary heart disease is chest pain, which can culminate in a heart attack, a life-threatening event. Coronary heart disease poses risk factors include hyperuricemia, high blood pressure, high blood sugar and other metabolic syndrome.
Analyzing the Relationship Between Hyperuricemia and Coronary Heart Disease:
Research indicates a tangible connection between hyperuricemia and coronary heart disease, with hyperuricemia detrimentally impacting the cardiovascular system and increasing the risk of coronary heart disease.
Firstly, Hyperuricemia can disrupt endothelial function, causing damage to coronary artery vessels, leading to their thickening and hardening, and eventual narrowing of blood vessels. This structural change enhances the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases.
Secondly, Hyperuricemia can expedite the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and the progression of atherosclerosis by stimulating inflammatory responses and oxidative stress. This contributes to the onset of coronary heart disease.
Furthermore, hyperuricemia elevates blood viscosity, making blood more likely to clot into thrombus and increasing the risk of cardiovascular events.
Prevention and Treatment of Hyperuricemia:
Hyperuricemia can be effectively prevented and managed through a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medical interventions:
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight alleviates the metabolic burden and helps reduce uric acid levels.
Moderate Exercise: Engaging in regular moderate aerobic exercises, such as brisk walking or swimming, can facilitate uric acid excretion.
Dietary Choices: A prudent diet should include a reduction in purine-containing foods like liver and seafood, while emphasizing the consumption of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to regulate uric acid levels.
Quitting Smoking and limiting Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption increase uric acid levels. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake are recommended to effectively lower uric acid levels.
Medication: For patients with hyperuricemia, uric acid-lowering drugs can be used under the instruction of healthcare providers.
In conclusion, hyperuricemia and coronary heart disease are closely related medically. Hyperuricemia is one of the risk factors for coronary heart disease. Preventing and controlling hyperuricemia is vital in mitigating the risk of coronary heart disease. For individuals with coronary heart disease, controlling hyperuricemia, along with managing other cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension and hyperlipidemia, is essential to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular events. By adopting reasonable lifestyle changes and undergoing appropriate medical intervention, effective prevention and management of hyperuricemia and coronary heart disease can be achieved, safeguarding cardiovascular health and improving overall quality of life.
（Translated by HUANG BAILIN, International Office, Guizhou Medical University）
