Protein in Urine: When It May Signal Kidney Damage

Protein in the urine is not always a sign of kidney disease. It can appear temporarily after strenuous exercise, fever, dehydration, or an illness. However, when it remains elevated, it may be one of the earliest indications of kidney damage—even when routine kidney blood tests still appear normal.

What this video explains

• Why protein can leak into the urine

• The difference between albuminuria, tubular proteinuria, and overflow proteinuria

• What the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio, or UACR, means

• Why a routine urine dipstick can miss smaller amounts of albumin

• When an abnormal urine-protein result should be repeated

• How persistent albuminuria is associated with kidney disease and cardiovascular risk

What should you do about abnormal protein in the urine?

One abnormal urine result does not necessarily mean that you have chronic kidney disease. The result usually needs to be confirmed and interpreted alongside your estimated GFR, blood pressure, medications, medical history, and overall health.

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, reduced kidney function, or another risk factor for kidney disease, ask your healthcare professional whether a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio would be appropriate. This test may reveal kidney damage before routine blood tests do.

This video is provided for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.