2. Consistent Elevation: A Cause for Concern?
If you notice that your protein levels remain consistently elevated over an extended period, that’s when you should start worrying. Unlike transient spikes, persistent elevated levels are often an indicator of underlying health issues, ranging from urinary tract infections to more severe conditions like kidney disease.
Let’s break this down. Consistent elevated levels of protein in the urine are a classic sign of what healthcare professionals refer to as proteinuria. Proteinuria isn’t a disease in itself but rather a symptom of another underlying condition. In many instances, it serves as a red flag for kidney dysfunction, which if left untreated, can lead to severe complications.
But the kidney isn’t the only organ that could be at fault here. Elevated protein levels could also be a symptom of heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension.
The kidneys and the cardiovascular system are closely linked, and dysfunction in one can often lead to issues in the other. Therefore, it’s imperative to consider elevated protein levels in a broader context of overall health.
According to a 2020 study published in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases, individuals with consistently high levels of protein in their urine had a significantly higher risk of developing end-stage renal disease. Therefore, consistent elevation is not something to be taken lightly; immediate medical consultation is advised. (2)
