General Causes
While protein is considered a crucial nutrient for the body, its presence in urine at abnormal levels may indicate an underlying problem. Normally, the filtering units in the kidneys prevent protein from entering the urine, ensuring that it doesn’t appear in inappropriate amounts. When these filtering units are disturbed or when other issues arise, it can lead to elevated protein levels in the urine. Below are some common reasons for proteinuria:
- Severe stress.
- Intense physical exercise.
- Dehydration.
- Fever.
- Exposure to extremely cold temperatures.
Medical Causes
There are several health conditions that can result in a significant increase in protein levels in urine significantly above normal. This elevation usually persists over extended periods. Some of these medical conditions include:
- Amyloidosis, characterized by the accumulation of protein in various organs.
- Cardiac diseases, including heart failure.
- Hypertension.
- Intake of certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Lupus.
- Malaria.
- Rheumatoid arthritis.
- Sarcoidosis, which involves the collection of inflammatory cells in the body.
- Sickle cell anemia.
- Nephrotic syndrome, which refers to damage to the small blood vessels that filter blood in the kidneys.
- Glomerulonephritis.
- Cancers and tumors, such as Hodgkin’s lymphoma and multiple myeloma.
Risk Factors for Elevated Protein in Urine
In addition to the aforementioned causes, certain risk factors may elevate the likelihood of experiencing proteinuria. These include:
- Diabetes.
- Obesity.
- Increasing age.
- A family history of kidney disease.
- Pre-eclampsia.