What does low albumin mean?

In general, low albumin levels may be associated with malnutrition, intense physical exercise, chronic hepatitis, nephrotic syndrome, cirrhosis, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Malnutrition

Long-term vegetarianism, dieting, picky eating, or conditions involving impaired digestion and absorption can significantly reduce protein intake, thereby affecting the liver's normal protein synthesis and metabolism, potentially leading to decreased albumin production. It is advisable to adjust dietary habits and increase intake of protein-rich foods such as eggs, milk, and lean meat.

2. Intense Physical Exercise

After intense exercise, increased bodily consumption may accelerate protein breakdown, leading to reduced albumin levels. This condition typically does not require treatment and can recover with adequate rest and nutritional supplementation.

3. Chronic Hepatitis

Chronic hepatitis results from prolonged liver damage caused by various factors such as viral infection, medications, or alcohol, which may impair liver cells and lead to abnormal liver function. When liver cells are damaged, their ability to synthesize albumin is compromised, resulting in reduced albumin production. Symptoms may include fatigue, jaundice, and ascites. Patients may follow medical advice to take medications such as entecavir tablets, tenofovir alafenamide fumarate tablets, or polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules.

4. Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome increases the permeability of the glomerular filtration membrane, causing significant loss of albumin through urine. The liver cannot produce enough albumin to compensate, leading to low albumin levels. Symptoms may include edema, weakened immunity, and poor appetite. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may use medications such as losartan potassium and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, valsartan capsules, or prednisone acetate tablets.

5. Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis, usually caused by chronic liver dysfunction, can severely damage liver cells and markedly reduce their ability to synthesize proteins, resulting in decreased plasma albumin concentration. Symptoms may include abdominal bloating, dizziness, and headaches. Under medical supervision, patients may take lamivudine tablets, silibinin meglumine tablets, or bicyclol tablets.

It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, consume sufficient high-quality protein, and ensure adequate rest and relaxation to support overall health.