Fact 5: It’s Not Always Serious
The very idea of proteins in a child’s urine can send many parents into a panic. But, here’s the silver lining: not all proteinuria cases are a cause for concern. Sometimes, temporary factors such as stress, fever, or intense physical activity can lead to transient proteinuria. It’s a short-lived spike in urinary proteins, which often resolves on its own.
However, orthostatic (or postural) proteinuria is a common type in adolescents. Kids with this condition might release more protein in their urine during the day but less when lying down at night. While it sounds unusual, it’s generally harmless and typically resolves as they grow.
Persistent proteinuria, on the other hand, is more concerning. This constant presence of elevated proteins might be a sign of an underlying kidney condition or another medical issue. It’s this type that requires more attention and possibly, treatment.
Parents should also be aware that mild proteinuria is often symptomless. Only when protein levels are significantly high or if there’s an associated kidney problem do symptoms like frothy urine or edema appear. To wrap it up, while any sign of illness in our kids can be worrisomely, proteinuria spans a spectrum. From harmless to serious, understanding where a child’s symptoms lie is crucial. (5)
