What is Proteinuria?
Proteins are essential for the body. If they leak excessively into the blood, it can indicate kidney damage.
Proteins usually stay in the blood, but if kidney function is compromised, they may pass into the urine, potentially affecting overall health.
Is Proteinuria Serious?
Yes, proteinuria is severe. It can be a sign of
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD
- Heart disease
- Hypertension.
If not treated, it may lead to kidney failure, requiring treatments like dialysis or a transplant.
Early detection and management are important to prevent severe complications.
What Causes Proteinuria?
Proteinuria can result from various conditions, including:
- Temporary causes: dehydration, intense exercise, stress, or low blood pressure.
- Chronic causes: kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, or immune disorders like lupus.
- Serious conditions: heart disease, kidney stones, and preeclampsia during pregnancy.
Certain risk factors, like
- Being over 65
- Having a family history of kidney disease
- Being from certain ethnic groups (Black, Hispanic, Native American)
may increase your chances of developing proteinuria.
What Are the Symptoms?
In the early stages, proteinuria often has no symptoms. As it progresses, it may cause:
- Swelling in the face, feet, or ankles
- Foamy or bubbly urine
- Fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath or muscle cramps
If you experience these symptoms, especially swelling or foamy urine, seeking medical attention immediately is essential.
How is Proteinuria Diagnosed and Treated?
Proteinuria is diagnosed through a
- Simple urine test
- Dipstick test
- Urinalysis
Further tests like
- Blood tests
- Imaging
- Kidney biopsy
may be recommended for suspected kidney disease. Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
- For kidney disease: medications, diet changes, and blood pressure management.
- For temporary causes, rest, hydration, and lifestyle modifications may be enough.
- Other conditions, such as managing diabetes, controlling hypertension, or treating infections, may resolve proteinuria.
Contact Krishna Patil Hospital Today!
If you’re experiencing symptoms of proteinuria or want to check your kidney health, our experts at Krishna Patil Hospital are here to help. Early detection is key—schedule a consultation now to safeguard your kidney health for a better tomorrow!
