Microalbuminuria is a situation in which there is a small change in the amount of albumin present in the urine. Albumin is a protein that performs various functions in the body and that, under normal conditions, little or no albumin is removed in the urine because it is a large protein and cannot be filtered by the kidneys.
However, in some situations, there may be an increase in albumin filtration, which is then eliminated in the urine and therefore the presence of this protein may indicate kidney damage. Ideally, albumin levels in urine can reach 30 mg / 24 hours of urine, but when levels between 30 and 300 mg / 24 hours are observed, this is considered microalbuminuria and, in some cases, as an early marker of kidney damage. Learn more about albuminuria.
- Microalbuminuria can occur when there are changes in the body that alter the glomerular filtration rate.
- As well as permeability and pressure in the glomeruli.
- Which is a structure located in the kidneys.
- These changes promote albumin filtration.
- Which is eventually eliminated in the urine.
- Some of the situations in which microalbuminuria can be controlled include:.
If albumin is checked in microalbuminuria indicator urine, the family doctor or nephrologist may indicate a repeat test to confirm the microalbuminuria, as well as request new tests to evaluate renal function, such as creatinine in urine for 24 hours and glomerular filtration flow, to check if the kidneys are filtering more than normal. Understand the glomerular filtration rate and how to understand the result.
It is important that the cause associated with microalbuminuria is identified so that the most appropriate treatment can be indicated and that more serious kidney damage that could interfere with its proper functioning can be prevented.
For example, if microalbuminuria is the result of diabetes or high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend medications that help treat these conditions, as well as recommend regular blood sugar and blood pressure monitoring.
In addition, in the case of microalbuminuria as a result of excessive protein consumption, it is important for the person to consult a nutritionist for dietary changes to avoid overloading the kidneys.