Protein in Urine (Proteinuria) Explained: Causes and Treatment

Introduction

The topic ‘protein in urine (proteinuria) explained’ is one of great importance especially for those who want to learn more about kidney health. The term protein in urine means the appearance of an abnormal quantity of protein in urine. It indicates improper filtration of blood by kidneys because normally healthy kidneys prevent any protein leakage into urine. The process takes place in case the filtering units of kidneys are damage. Learning protein in urine (proteinuria) explained will help people detect warning signs in time and get necessary medical treatment in order to preserve their kidney functioning.

What Is Protein in Urine (Proteinuria)?

Protein in urine, otherwise proteinuria, is a condition characterize by the presence of extra protein in the urine. Kidneys include small filters (glomeruli) that filter all harmful substances from the blood and at the same time keep there such useful components as proteins. However, in case these filters are injure or inflamed, protein leaks into urine instead of blood.

Causes of Protein in Urine (Proteinuria)

Proteinuria can be caused by various factors. Proteinuria caused by physical activity, dehydration, fever, stress, or standing for a long time can be temporary without causing any kidney damage.

On the other hand, persistent proteinuria is commonly associate with certain health problems, such as:

Chronic kidney disease

Diabetes

High blood pressure

Glomerulonephritis 

Kidney infection

Lupus and other autoimmune diseases

Determining the cause is important to determine the right way to treat proteinuria.

Symptoms of Protein in Urine (Proteinuria)

In its early stages, proteinuria does not cause any symptoms and can be discover on a regular urine analysis. With the progressing kidney damage, symptoms may develop, including:

Foamy urine

Tissue swelling (in hands, feet, ankles, or face)

Exhaustion

These symptoms can also be a sign of different health issues, therefore, it is require to visit the doctor for a proper diagnosis.

How Is Proteinuria Diagnosed?

Proteinuria is diagnose with the help of various laboratory tests. The urine dipstick test is one of the most common ways to check whether there is protein in the urine. In case of its presence, the doctor may recommend performing other urine tests, such as urine protein to creatinine ratio or 24-hour urine collection, to calculate the amount of protein lost.

It is possible to assess the functioning of kidneys with the help of blood tests that measure the level of creatinine and estimate eGFR. Imaging tests like ultrasound may be conduct in order to examine the kidneys. Sometimes, a biopsy of the kidney may be required in order to determine the reason of kidney damage.

Treatment for Protein in Urine (Proteinuria)

The treatment of protein in the urine is related to the cause of the condition. If the reason of proteinuria is diabetes or high blood pressure, it is necessary to control these conditions. ACE inhibitors and ARBs that can decrease blood pressure and consequently decrease protein leaking may be prescribe.

The additional treatment can include:

Blood sugar control

Treatment of kidney infections

Diabetes

Sodium intake reduction

Kidney-friendly diet

Tips for Living a Healthy Life in Order to Protect Kidney Health

A healthy way of living plays a vital role in dealing with proteinuria. Drinking adequate amounts of water, having a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, exercise, proper regulation of the blood pressure levels, and keeping the level of the blood sugar under control is a great help in order to maintain the health of your kidneys. Regular visits to doctors are necessary for people who suffer from diabetes or hypertension or who have a history of kidney problems in their family.

Conclusion

Explanation of What Protein in Urine (Proteinuria) Is will help people understand one of the first signals about the development of kidney diseases. While temporary proteinuria does not need any treatment, but it should not be neglected anyway. Timely diagnosis and the right treatment can save your kidneys and health.