Urine bubbling, suspected kidney health signal proteinuria
Apr 16, 2025
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Proteinuria is a condition in which protein is abnormally discharged from the urine. Proteinuria is diagnosed if the amount of protein released from urine per day is more than 150mg per adult. This means that there is an abnormality in the filtering function of the kidneys. A healthy kidney preserves protein in the blood and filters out only waste, but if it is impaired, the protein escapes to the urine.
The causes of proteinuria vary widely. Chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure are known to be the main causes as well as diseases of the kidney itself such as chronic renal failure, nephrotic syndrome, and glomerulonephritis. If blood sugar control is difficult or blood pressure persists, proteinuria can occur due to damage to blood vessels in the kidneys. In addition, temporary proteinuria may occur due to intense exercise, stress, high fever, and dehydration.
A typical symptom of proteinuria is the formation of foam in the urine and long-lasting. In addition, urine color may be murky or darker than usual, and systemic symptoms such as swelling around the eyes and legs, fatigue, and loss of appetite may be accompanied.
Professor Yum Sang-hoon of the Department of Nephrology at the Catholic University of Korea's Incheon St. Mary's Hospital said "Proteinuria is not just a symptom, but may be an important signal to warn of kidney dysfunction."Early detection and proper management are of paramount importance because they are highly related to kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc."
Proteinuria diagnosis usually begins with 'Dipstick method'. After the urine is buried on the test paper, the protein concentration is indirectly checked by color change to determine the level of proteinuria. Depending on the degree of discoloration, it is divided into stages from 1+ to 4+. Each step means protein concentrations of 30 mg/dL, 100 mg/dL, 300 mg/dL, and 1000 mg/dL. However, the accuracy of the results may decrease due to urine acidity (pH), hematuria, and bacteria.
If proteinuria is suspected, all urine is collected for a day and the total amount of protein is measured. In addition, kidney function, blood sugar, waste products, and electrolyte levels are checked through blood tests. If necessary, protein is separated by an electric field to check for abnormalities 'protein electrophoresis test' or abdominal ultrasound test may be performed. If a disease of the kidney itself is suspected, an accurate diagnosis can be made by blood tests or kidney biopsy (biopsy) to discriminate glomerulonephritis.
Proper lifestyle habits are important for proteinuria prevention. You should eat a low-salt diet and control protein intake to reduce the burden on your kidneys. Proper intensity of exercise also helps. Excessive exercise can cause proteinuria, so it is better not to overdo it. Sufficient water intake helps to keep kidney function smooth. In particular, high blood pressure and diabetes are the main causes of proteinuria, and regular checkups, blood pressure, and blood sugar management are also important.
Professor Eum Sang-hoon said "The most effective way to protect kidney health is to detect and manage proteinuria early through regular health checkups and lifestyle improvements" and "Don't miss even a small abnormal signal, but pay constant attention"
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This article was translated by Naver AI translator.
