Causes of elevated albumin/globulin ratio

An elevated albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio may be caused by factors such as insufficient water intake, a high-protein diet, dehydration, recovery phase of liver disease, or chronic kidney disease. Appropriate management can be selected based on the specific situation. If physical discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment.

1. Insufficient water intake: When the body lacks water, blood becomes concentrated, causing relative increases in the concentrations of albumin and globulin, thereby elevating the A/G ratio. The solution is simple: ensure daily intake of 1500–2000 mL of water, drink more plain boiled water, and consume it in small amounts multiple times to dilute the blood and normalize the A/G ratio.

2. High-protein diet: Consuming large amounts of protein-rich foods such as meat, legumes, and dairy products within a short period can increase albumin synthesis in the body, leading to an elevated A/G ratio. Adjust the diet structure appropriately by reducing excessive intake of high-protein foods, maintaining a balanced diet, and incorporating fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and dietary fiber, such as apples and broccoli.

3. Dehydration: Dehydration caused by severe vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, or other reasons reduces the water content in blood, increasing the relative concentration of proteins and leading to a higher A/G ratio. Symptoms often include thirst, reduced urine output, and dry skin. Patients may take oral rehydration salts under medical guidance to replenish fluids and electrolytes. In severe cases of dehydration, intravenous fluid therapy may be required.

4. Recovery phase of liver disease: Patients with liver diseases such as hepatitis may experience a gradual recovery of the liver's ability to synthesize albumin during the recovery phase, while globulin levels remain relatively stable, resulting in an elevated A/G ratio. Symptoms may include fatigue and gradual recovery of appetite. It is recommended to continue protecting the liver and promoting full recovery of liver function under medical guidance using medications such as compound glycyrrhizin tablets, silybin capsules, and polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules.

5. Chronic kidney disease: In chronic kidney disease, impaired kidney function leads to protein loss through urine, particularly albumin. Meanwhile, increased inflammatory and immune responses may elevate globulin levels, resulting in an increased A/G ratio. Symptoms may include edema, hypertension, and proteinuria. It is recommended to use medications such as roxithromycin tablets, methylprednisolone tablets, and hydrochlorothiazide tablets under medical guidance to alleviate discomfort.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a bland diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods such as garlic, hot pot, and mustard. Adequate rest is important, and overexertion should be avoided to prevent adverse effects on health. References:

[1] Shen Na, Song Dandan, Li Weina, et al. Application of differentiated nursing combined with goal management in perioperative care for patients with liver disease[J]. Evidence-Based Nursing, 2024, 10(17): 3216-3220.

[2] Zhu Gengyao, Ma Chao, Liu Guangwang, et al. Diagnostic value of novel blood markers including albumin/globulin ratio and fibrinogen for preoperative assessment of periprosthetic joint infection[J]. China Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 2025, 38(01): 55-60.