Protein in Urine: Symptoms & Effects
Protein in urine, also known as proteinuria, can be a concerning condition. A small amount of protein in human urine is normal, as the kidneys are responsible for flushing the body out using urine and holding on to important nutrients (like protein).
However, a large amount can be an early sign of kidney disease and should not be ignored. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, they will not be able to properly filter the blood and will allow proteins to leak through. If proteinuria is allowed to get out of control, it can cause such severe damage, as such that patients may need dialysis (Dialysis Wiki Page) or even a kidney transplant.
Symptoms of Protein in Urine
Part of what can make proteinuria dangerous, is the lack of symptoms. Many people suffering from proteinuria may be totally asymptomatic until the problem has become serious. If you do experience symptoms, they will probably be minor. The best way to find out if you have it is through a urine test.
Possible symptoms of proteinuria include:
- Foamy urine.
- Swelling in hands.
- Swelling in feet.
- Swelling in face.
There are many diseases and illnesses that may cause proteinuria, as well. These include:
- Leukemia.
- Malaria.
- Lupus.
Protein in Urine: Symptoms & Effects
High blood pressure.
- Preeclampsia.
- Kidney disease.
- Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
- Heart disease.
- Heart failure.
- Pericarditis.
- Sickle cell anemia.
- Berger’s Disease.
- Sarcoidosis.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis.
If you have one of these diseases or conditions, your doctor will likely check your urine regularly. Small amounts of protein in the urine are not a cause for concern and can be caused by things such as fever or stress. Large amounts over a prolonged period of time are a cause for concern.
Effects of Protein in Urine
Prolonged and uncontrolled proteinuria may lead to kidney damage or even kidney failure. There are many treatment options, however, which can help. The treatment is typically directly related to the disease which is causing the protein in the urine. For example, if the patient suffers from diabetes, they may be prescribed a different medication than a patient with high blood pressure. The best treatment plan will need to be decided to be a doctor.