Protein in Urine (Proteinuria)
Protein in Urine (Proteinuria)
Proteinuria is increased levels of protein in the urine. Presence of protein in urine could be transient as in after strenuous exercise or persistently raised as in secondary to underlying kidney disease. Abnormally raised presence of protein in urine itself is damaging to kidneys. Treatment is often directed to underlying cause.
Diagnosis
These tests and exams play a key role in finding a cause for blood in the urine:
Physical exam : This includes a talk with a health care provider about your health history.
Urine tests : These can be used to diagnose blood in the urine. They also can be used weeks or months later to see if the urine still has blood in it. Urine tests also can check for a urinary tract infection or for minerals that cause kidney stones.
Imaging tests : An imaging test is often needed to find the cause of blood in the urine. You might need a CT or MRI scan, or an ultrasound exam.
Cystoscopy : A health care provider threads a narrow tube fitted with a tiny camera into your bladder to check for signs of disease.