What Causes Albumin in the Urine?
Albumin in the urine, also known as albuminuria, is primarily caused by damaged kidneys. A healthy kidney effectively filters waste and excess fluid from the blood, preventing proteins like albumin from leaking into the urine. However, when the kidney's filtering system is compromised, albumin can pass through and appear in the urine. This is a significant indicator of underlying kidney disease and not a disease itself.
Several factors can lead to kidney damage and subsequently, albumin in the urine:
- Kidney Disease: This is the most common cause. Different types of kidney diseases, such as diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage due to diabetes), can impair the kidneys' filtering capabilities, allowing albumin to escape into the urine. National Kidney Foundation
- Infections: Urinary tract infections and other infections can temporarily increase albumin levels in urine. Testing.com
- Other Medical Conditions: Conditions like heart failure, amyloidosis, and certain types of lymphoma can contribute to albuminuria. Mayo Clinic
- Medications: Some medications, particularly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can affect kidney function and lead to albumin in the urine. Mayo Clinic
- Vigorous Exercise: Intense physical activity can temporarily raise albumin levels. MedlinePlus
- Fever: Fever and inflammation can also be temporary contributing factors. MedlinePlus
Symptoms of Albuminuria
While albuminuria itself often has no noticeable symptoms, the underlying kidney disease may manifest with:
- Foamy urine: Albumin can cause urine to appear frothy. National Kidney Foundation
- Puffiness (edema): Swelling around the eyes, feet, ankles, and belly area. National Kidney Foundation
- Frequent urination: Increased need to urinate more often than usual. National Kidney Foundation
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing albuminuria involves a urine test to measure albumin levels. The treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause. Addressing the root cause, whether it's managing diabetes or treating an infection, is crucial in managing albuminuria.
