Have you ever heard the term proteinuria? The name suggests that it has something to do with protein and urine. Well, you guessed it right. Proteinuria is a condition marked by elevated levels of protein in the urine, which is the result of underlying kidney disease or ailment. When your kidneys are healthy and functioning normally, they do not allow the protein to pass into them from the bloodstream, however, if there is some defect in your kidneys it can lead to the leakage of the same into the urine and, as a result, you pass out the urine with too much protein in it. Experts specialising in urology surgery in Thane suggest that proteinuria is an early symptom of many kidney diseases and as such, the problem should not be overlooked.

Wondering why proteinuria is not a good sign?

Proteins are extremely important for us as they are involved in various vital functions. They play a very crucial role in the building of muscles and bones and are also important for regulating the fluids in your body. Apart from these functions proteins also play a role in alleviating the risks of infection and aid in repairing damaged or diseased tissues. The top urology specialists in Mumbai suggest that proteinuria can cause your protein levels to drop, thereby affecting all these functions and drastically impacting your health.

Is it really that serious?

If you are still wondering whether proteinuria should be a cause of concern or not, the answer is yes. The problem is very serious and calls for the need of immediate assessment and treatment. Traces of protein in the urine not only suggest that you have a serious renal ailment but can also elevate your risks of developing life-threatening cardiovascular problems.

The best urologist doctor in Pune suggests that it could also be a sign of chronic kidney disease, a condition marked by the gradual loss of renal function. A patient suffering from the problem usually requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Who is at risk of developing proteinuria?

Proteinuria is not an age or gender-specific problem. It can affect anyone, although the incidence rates may vary depending upon a few factors.

It has been seen that elderly people, especially those about 65 years of age, are at a higher risk of developing the problem

The risks are also elevated in people who have a family history of some serious kidney disease.

Apart from these two factors, the risks can also be increased by an underlying disease or ailment, that has a direct or indirect influence on your kidneys.

If you can relate to any of these three, you should definitely go for regular assessments.

What actually happens when you have proteinuria?

You must have understood that proteinuria refers to the increased levels of protein in the urine. Let's now try to understand how this actually happens. Your kidneys are made up of countless tiny blood vessels, known as glomeruli. These are responsible for performing the first step of filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood. These are then thrown out of the body, in the form of urine. The glomeruli are so small that they do not allow large protein particles to pass through them. Even if a tiny amount of protein passes into the urine, it gets collected in the tubules and is then sent back to the body. This way there is no wastage of protein. If something is wrong with your glomeruli or tubules, they won't be able to stop the proteins from leaking. This is what gives rise to proteinuria.

Do you have proteinuria?

Whether a person has proteinuria or not, is determined by the analysis of his/her urine. Also, there are several symptoms that may suggest that one has proteinuria. These are:

• Oedema, caused by the build-up of fluids in the limbs and belly
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Breathlessness or breathing difficulties
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Increased cramping, especially at night
• Waking up with puffy eyes
• Foam or bubbles in urine

If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms lately does important to go for a proper urine analysis to rule out the possibility of proteinuria. If you have been diagnosed with the same it is important to see a doctor and plan your treatment at the earliest.