Albuminuria is the presence of albumin in the urine, which is a protein responsible for various functions in the body and is not normally found in urine. However, when there are changes in the kidney, there may be a release of this protein into the urine, and it is important that the nephrologist is consulted to identify the cause and initiate appropriate treatment. .
The presence of albumin in the urine can be identified by the type 1 urine test, but to check the amount of albumin, your doctor is usually asked to perform the 24-hour urine test, in which all urine produced by the person in question one day is collected in your own container and sent to the lab for testing. Learn all about the 24-hour urine test.
- Albumin is a protein responsible for various functions in the body.
- Such as maintaining osmotic pressure.
- PH control.
- And the transport of hormones.
- Fatty acids.
- Bilirubin.
- And medications; under normal conditions.
- The kidneys prevent the elimination of proteins in the urine.
- However.
- When kidney function is compromised.
- Proteins.
- Mainly albumin.
- Pass from the blood to the urine.
- So that albuminuria can be classified according to the extent of kidney injury by:.
The presence of albumin in the urine is considered normal when a concentration of less than 30 mg is observed in 24 hours. When the amounts and albumin higher than the value considered normal by the laboratory are verified, the doctor usually indicates a repetition of the examination after 1 month to confirm the diagnosis.
Albuminuria usually occurs due to kidney problems, such as glomerulonephritis or nephritis, or as a result of conditions that can interfere with kidney activity, such as:
Albumin can also be present in the urine after strenuous physical exercise, in urinary tract infections, fever, dehydration, and stress, which is called situational albuminuria. Albuminuria is usually asymptomatic, but the presence of foam in the urine may indicate the presence of protein. See what causes foam in urine.
The treatment of albuminuria depends on its cause and is done according to the advice of the nephrologist; in general, patients with microalbuminuria respond satisfactorily to prescribed medicines for base disease; in contrast, in the most severe cases, a protein replacement may be performed. necessary.
During the treatment of albuminuria, it is important to keep constant control of your blood pressure and blood sugar, as increased blood pressure and blood sugar can further damage the kidneys.