Hi all! 23 yr old female here, been under very investigation into my kidneys for a year which has been slow due to moving around and being with different doctors.
GFR and ultrasound have always come back clear but the consitent problem for the last year has been proteinuria and pain in my flanks.
When I first got tested around a year ago my albumin:creatine ratio was 44.2 mg/mmol (pretty high!) However my last test it was just over 30.
I've noticed the frothy urine and pain in my side comes and goes (particulalry with stress I think?)
Is it normal for proteinuria to come and go? Any idea what this could signify?
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FittoniaPlant
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You need a 24hour urine collection and to find out how much protein you are spilling. You are correct, frothy urine is most likely due to proteinuria.
If your kidney function is normal (at age 23) you can mostly relax but will need to find a nephrologist and be on at least yearly or 6 month checkup. Proteinuria can be addressed with medication but not always. And it is well known that Proteinuria increases the rate your kidneys get damage (over time). If the doctor suspects that this might be genetic, might want a genetic test. A biopsy is also an option to get a more accurate diagnostic.
Could be many reasons for the erratic protein spilling.
Are you diabetic? Have you been diagnosed or told of CKD or a kidney issue?
I would speak to the GP or Consultant who ordered the urine tests and discuss your test results and ask their opinions as well as what can be done to eliminate this.
Are you diabetic? What medications are you on?
The 24 urine catch is generally the gold star marker among nephrologist as it displays and average of your kidney function, protein etc. over a 24 hour period; similar to A1C as marker for diabetes.
This differs from as a spot urine test which can be more variable in results as time of day, spin and other factors can play a role.
Are you taking BP medication as Ramipril, an ACE inhibitor or Losartan, Angiotensin II receptor blocker? They are usually the first line drugs for kidney patients and to try to eliminate protein spilling as they take the pressure off the kidneys and act as a protector.
As far as diet, the link below should give you insight.
Moderation based on your labs; adding more vegetables and fruits is a better way to go than totally eliminating a food group as its a lifestyle change.
Speak to your doctor and reach back as every person is different. We are happy to support.
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