What should I do if total protein is low?
Nov 20, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
In general, low total protein levels may be caused by factors such as malnutrition, nephrotic syndrome, nephritis, chronic hepatitis C, or alcoholic cirrhosis. Patients can receive symptomatic treatment based on the specific underlying cause. If a patient has a habit of picky eating and insufficient nutritional intake, it may lead to decreased total protein levels.
In general, low total protein levels may be caused by factors such as malnutrition, nephrotic syndrome, nephritis, chronic hepatitis C, or alcoholic cirrhosis. Patients should receive symptomatic treatment based on the specific underlying cause. The details are as follows:
1. Malnutrition
If a patient has a poor diet with picky eating habits and insufficient nutrient intake, it may lead to decreased total protein levels. However, this condition is usually not severe. Adjusting dietary habits and consuming more protein-rich foods such as eggs, tofu, and sea cucumber to supplement essential nutrients can generally alleviate the condition.
2. Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is a disease typically involving damage to the glomeruli, leading to protein leakage in the urine. It should be treated according to medical advice using medications such as hydrochlorothiazide tablets, spironolactone capsules, and prednisolone tablets to relieve the condition.
3. Nephritis
The kidneys are important organs for protein synthesis and excretion. When the kidneys are damaged or inflamed, their ability to synthesize proteins may decrease, resulting in lower total protein levels in the blood. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as hydrochlorothiazide tablets and penicillin V potassium tablets for treatment.
4. Chronic Hepatitis C
Chronic hepatitis C can damage the liver, reducing protein synthesis and leading to low total protein levels. Prompt medical attention is recommended, and antiviral medications such as famciclovir tablets or lamivudine tablets should be used under medical supervision.
5. Alcoholic Cirrhosis
Long-term heavy alcohol consumption leading to alcoholic cirrhosis can also cause the aforementioned symptoms. It is recommended to stop drinking alcohol immediately and, under medical guidance, use targeted medications such as metadoxine tablets or hydrocortisone tablets, which can help prevent further worsening of the condition.
Patients are advised to seek timely medical treatment.
