What is Proteinuria?
Proteinuria is the presence of abnormal amounts of protein in the urine. Normally, healthy kidneys do not let significant amounts of protein to filter through them. But damaged kidneys let significant amounts of protein to pass through them causing significant disturbances in other bodily functions. One of the major proteins that is lost with urine is Albumin. .Normally, you should have less than 150 milligrams (about 3 percent of a teaspoon) of protein in the urine per day. Having more than 150 milligrams per day is called proteinuria.
DOES PROTEINURIA CAUSE SYMPTOMS?
People with a small amount of proteinuria generally have no signs or symptoms. However, some patients have edema (swelling) in the face, legs, or abdomen if they lose large amounts of protein in their urine.
TYPES OF PROTEINURIA
Proteinuria can be divided into three categories: 1- transient (intermittent) proteinuria is usually due to stress, fever, heavy exercise and resolves without any treatment. 2- Orthostatic proteinuria is a postural proteinuria occurs when one loses protein in the urine in an upright position but not when lying down. This type is not harmful and does not require treatment, and typically disappears with age. 3- Persistent proteinuria occurs in people with underlying kidney disease or other medical problems and needs medical attention and treatment.
PROTEINURIA DIAGNOSIS
Proteinuria is diagnosed by analyzing the urine (called a urinalysis). If two or more urinalyses show protein in the urine, the next step is to determine how much protein is in the urine. This can be measured from a single urine sample collected at any time or urine that has been collected over 24 hrs. Blood testing is also preformed to see how well the kidneys are working. Finally kidney biopsy might be required to determine the exact cause of proteinuria.
Some of the risk factors for proteinuria are:
Management of Proteinuria
Proteinuria in itself is not a disease. It may be indicative of kidney damage due to an underlying condition. Therefore, the treatment is based on identifying the underlying cause of proteinuria and treating it. Treatment is based on the severity and the cause of kidney disease. Early detection and proper treatment are vital in preventing the progression of kidney disease.
Disclaimer: The UCLA Health System cannot guarantee the accuracy of such information. The information is provided without warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please speak to your Physician before making any changes.
