Can trace proteinuria (1+) be reduced?
Feb 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xinju
Introduction
A urine protein level of 1+ indicates a small amount of protein in the urine, suggesting a relatively mild kidney condition, which can be reduced with prompt treatment. Additionally, in daily life, diet should be low in salt and fat, and include high-quality protein to help reduce the burden on the kidneys. After initiating drug therapy, regular follow-up urinalysis and quantitative urine protein tests are necessary, and treatment should be adjusted accordingly.
Proteinuria 1+ indicates a small amount of protein in the urine, suggesting a relatively mild kidney condition. With active treatment, the protein level can be reduced.
Proteinuria 1+ means a positive test for urinary protein, which is mostly caused by kidney diseases such as acute or chronic glomerulonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple myeloma.
The total protein excreted in the urine over 24 hours is usually measured to assess protein leakage. A kidney biopsy may be needed to better understand the kidney's pathological changes. For conditions like glomerulonephritis or IgA nephropathy, medications such as ACE inhibitors or ARBs (e.g., irbesartan, valsartan, benazepril) can be used under medical supervision. After treatment with these drugs, proteinuria often becomes negative, indicating that the urinary protein level has decreased.
If proteinuria remains above 1 gram per day after more than three months of treatment, low-dose corticosteroids may be added to help control protein levels. Additionally, daily diet should be low in salt and fat, and include high-quality protein. Daily salt intake should not exceed 6 grams to reduce the burden on the kidneys. After starting medication, regular follow-up tests including urinalysis and quantitative urine protein measurements are necessary, and treatment should be adjusted accordingly.
