Proteinuria refers to elevated protein levels in the urine. It’s not a standalone ailment but rather a symptom indicating certain kidney conditions. When the kidneys’ filters, known as glomeruli, malfunction, they allow excessive protein to escape into the urine. This condition, often resulting from damage to the glomeruli, is termed nephritis or glomerulonephritis, a type of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Various underlying conditions, including hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and different kidney diseases, can lead to nephritis. Learn more about proteinuria and what it says about your kidney health.*

Proteinuria and its types

Proteinuria encompasses a spectrum of severity. Recognizing the different types and understanding their progression aids in gauging kidney function and predicting the risk of kidney failure.

• Albumin, the predominant protein in urine during proteinuria, often leads to its synonym, albuminuria. Other proteins (globulin, Bence-Jones protein, and mucoprotein) can also leak into the urine, with the level and type of protein indicating the extent of damage and the risk of kidney failure.
• Microalbuminuria denotes minimal protein elevation, suggesting initial kidney damage. As the condition progresses, more protein escapes, leading to full-fledged albuminuria.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Before you even have a urinalysis done to confirm proteinuria, you may notice such symptoms of advanced kidney dysfunction as: foamy urine, and swelling in the hands, feet, face, or abdomen. Symptoms rarely manifest in the early stages of CKD.

Symptoms alone are not enough for a diagnosis, however. A quick dipstick urine test can reveal high protein levels by changing color upon contact with urine. In addition:

• Further tests are essential to quantify protein levels accurately and assess protein ratios to other urine substances. Blood tests measuring creatinine and urea nitrogen are crucial for diagnosing impaired kidney function.
• Routine protein screening is recommended for high-risk individuals, such as those with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease.

Treatment and seeking help

Treatment strategies for proteinuria hinge on addressing the underlying cause. If nephritis is the culprit, identifying and managing kidney inflammation is the primary step. Controlling hypertension or diabetes is crucial if they are the underlying causes.

Prompt medical attention is necessary if symptoms like foamy urine or swelling occur, especially in high-risk groups like children, diabetics, or those with a family history of kidney issues.

*Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.) Proteinuria. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/proteinuria#:~

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