Protein in the urine results from excess protein in the body or impaired kidney function. This condition, called proteinuria, is usually short-lived and benign. In other more serious cases, increased protein levels in the urine can be an indication of dangerous medical conditions.
Any significant stress to the body can result in a temporary increase in protein levels in the urine. During exercise, for example, muscles release protein into the bloodstream. Even completely healthy kidneys are often unable to filter out all of this excess protein, and some of it is lost in the urine. A similar process occurs in individuals who are exposed to extreme temperatures or under emotional stress. These elevated protein levels are temporary and relatively harmless.
Temporary excess protein in the urine can also be caused by certain medications. Antibiotics, such as penicillin, oxacillin, and methicillin, can occasionally make the kidneys less effective. Also, many medications used to treat kidney and bladder infections can cause changes in kidney function. Occasional use of these medications is generally quite safe for patients with healthy kidneys. Patients who will be taking these drugs for long periods of time may require regular tests of kidney function.
A chronically high level of protein in the urine is often a sign of underlying health problems. In these cases, kidney health is obviously the first area of investigation. Very treatable diseases like kidney and bladder infections are often to blame.
The presence of cysts on or within the kidneys can also lead to increased protein in the urine. These are often simple cysts with no specific cause. Rarely do these cysts require surgical intervention. However, in some cases, kidney cysts can be caused by serious genetic conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease or medullary cystic kidney disease. These conditions cause multiple recurring cysts and often lead to significant kidney damage.
Many diseases can lead to kidney damage and chronic kidney failure. Diabetic kidney damage is one of the most common causes, but high blood pressure can also be a frequent factor. Amyloidosis, a condition in which the body produces too much protein, can overload and damage the kidneys. In addition, most types of cancer that start in the urinary system can also cause kidney damage.
In pregnant women, protein in the urine can be an indicator of preeclampsia. This condition can cause blood pressure to rise to a level that endangers the mother and baby. Maternal stroke and seizure activity are possible as preeclampsia progresses. There are also likely to be problems during labor and delivery.