Albuminuria
What is Albuminuria?
Albuminuria is an excess of albumin in the urine, usually caused by kidney damage. Albumin is a protein produced by the liver that helps keep the body fluids in balance. It is also the primary protein found in the blood. If the kidneys are damaged or weak they cannot filter the albumin from the blood properly leading to an excess of albumin in the urine.
Signs and Symptoms
Albuminuria rarely causes any symptoms, and it may be found as an incidental result of a school, work, or medical screening. It can, however, be associated with some more serious conditions. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Swelling in the arms, legs, feet, or face (edema)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Foamy urine
- Reduced kidney function
- Persistent proteinuria
Risk Factors
Various risk factors can increase your chances of developing albuminuria. These include:
- Age: Those older than 65 have an increased risk of albuminuria due to age-related changes in the kidneys and kidneys.
- Chronic kidney disease: People with decreased kidney function, such as from diabetes or hypertension, are more likely to have albuminuria
- High blood pressure (hypertension): Having high blood pressure can damage the kidneys leading to albuminuria.
- Heart disease: People with heart disease are at an increased risk for albuminuria due to the strain placed on the heart.
- Obesity: Carrying extra weight can place an additional strain on the kidneys, leading to albuminuria.
- Family history: Certain genetic factors can lead to albuminuria.
Complications
Albuminuria can lead to serious kidney complications such as acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Having albuminuria can also increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.