The abnormal presence of protein in urine is known as proteinuria. This condition is characterized by an unusual amount of protein present in the urine. It can be an indication of kidney disease, which is one of the possible complications of diabetes.
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Importance of Blood Sugar Control
Doctors use medical examinations to find out whether a person has abnormal levels of protein in the urine. Individuals who have diabetes are at risk of developing the condition. This is because kidney disease damages small blood vessels and causes the kidneys to stop functioning normally.
Controlling blood sugar is important for decreasing the risk of proteinuria among other complications that may arise from diabetes such as heart problems. Blood pressure also needs regulation. Protein levels in urine are ideally low.
Annual Urine Protein Checks for Diabetics
- A urinalysis is used to show how much protein is present in the urine and your medical practitioner will be able to determine whether or not you at risk of developing a heart condition. For people who have diabetes, doctors check for signs of protein in the urine every year or as often as they need to. An increase in the protein levels can be an early sign of kidney disease.
- Proteinuria typically does not have symptoms in the beginning. If the amounts of protein in your urine are significant, you may notice that your urine has a thicker or foamy consistency. You may also notice your limbs, stomach and face swelling because your body will be retaining more fluid than usual.
- Swelling is a sign of advanced kidney disease and laboratory tests are necessary for finding out protein amounts before the situation gets worse. Since people who have diabetes are at risk for proteinuria, they need to have their urine checked regularly.
Frequent Blood Tests
- If you have received a diagnosis of diabetes and the protein in your urine is abnormal, the most important thing to do is control your blood sugar. You should also have your blood glucose tested frequently.
- It is also important for you to eat healthy nutritious meals, take the medicine your doctor prescribes and exercise often.
- People who have diabetes may require medication that will serve the purpose of protecting their kidneys. Blood glucose control is vital for all diabetics along with formulating healthy eating plans.
- Diabetes prevention and management requires you to make sure that you see your doctor whenever you have an appointment and keep your blood sugar levels as normal as possible.
- Get tested for protein in your urine and have blood tests done for measuring your kidney function on an annual basis.
- If you smoke, make an effort to stop, eat balanced meals and lead an active lifestyle.
- If you have any concerns regarding kidney disease or heart risk contact your doctor and find out all the information you need.
Treatment and Diet Changes
When the functions of the kidneys are disrupted, treatment is necessary. Specific food restrictions such as salty foods or protein will help to stop waste matter from piling up in your system.
