A high uric acid level is too much uric acid in the blood. Uric acid comes from the breakdown of purines. Purines are in certain foods, and the body forms them.

Blood carries uric acid to the kidneys. The kidneys pass most uric acid into the urine, which then leaves the body.

Gout or kidney stones can cause a high uric acid level. But most people with high uric acid levels don't have symptoms of either of these conditions or related issues.