Protein in the urine may occur for several reasons, including:
- Diabetes
High blood sugar over time can damage the kidney’s filtering units. - High blood pressure
Increased pressure can strain and damage the kidneys. - Kidney inflammation or disease
Conditions that affect the kidney filters may allow protein to leak into the urine. - Temporary conditions
Fever, dehydration, infections, stress, or heavy exercise can cause short-term proteinuria. - Certain medications
Some medications may affect kidney function. - Autoimmune or systemic diseases
Conditions that affect the immune system may involve the kidneys.
To understand the cause and severity of proteinuria, your nephrologist may recommend:
- Urine testing
To measure the amount and type of protein being lost. - Blood tests
To evaluate kidney function and look for underlying causes. - Blood pressure monitoring
Since high blood pressure can worsen kidney damage. - Imaging studies
Such as ultrasound, if structural concerns are suspected. - Kidney biopsy (in select cases)
To identify specific kidney diseases when the diagnosis is unclear.
Early evaluation helps guide treatment and protect long-term kidney health.
Important NOTE
First Sign
Proteinuria can be the first sign of kidney disease. It also means that you officially have stage 1 CKD (even with a normal creatinine level!).
Risk Factor
It’s a risk factor for heart disease and mortality
Vascular Disease
Even teeny tiny amounts of albumin in urine increases the risk of a heart attack stroke, vascular disease and death
Master Your Kidney Health Journey.
Don't hesitate—reach out to our team today to discuss your kidney health
concerns and take the next step toward better well-being.