The Protein Total, 24 Hours Urine Test is a crucial investigation that helps to evaluate and monitor the amount of protein excreted in the urine over a 24-hour period. Proteinuria, or excess protein in the urine, is often a sign of kidney damage or disease.
The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and regulating the balance of substances like protein. In a healthy individual, the kidneys retain most of the protein, and only a small amount is lost through urine. However, when the kidneys are not functioning correctly, an increased amount of protein may leak into the urine, leading to proteinuria. This test provides valuable information about kidney health and function.
By accurately measuring the total protein in urine over a 24-hour period, healthcare professionals can diagnose and monitor conditions like kidney disease, lupus, diabetes, hypertension, and more.
Test NameProtein Total, 24 Hours Urine
Sample TypeUrine
Preparations RequiredNo specific preparations are needed for this test, but you should always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
Report Time5 hours
Why is the Protein Total, 24 Hours Urine Test done?
The test is primarily used to evaluate the amount of protein excreted in the urine, which can help detect kidney disease or monitor the severity and progression of the condition.
What does protein in urine indicate?
Protein in the urine, known as proteinuria, often indicates that your kidneys are not filtering blood properly, which could be due to conditions like kidney disease, hypertension, diabetes, or lupus.
Home Sample Collection Process
1
Book your convenient slot
2
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
Download Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
The 24-hour urine collection is started by emptying your bladder in the morning and discarding that sample. Then, for the next 24 hours, all urine should be collected in a special container provided by your healthcare provider.
It's recommended to store the urine sample container in a cool place, often in the refrigerator, during the collection period. It's important not to freeze the sample.
The amount of protein in urine is normally very small, typically less than 150 milligrams per day. Anything above this level may be considered proteinuria and warrant further investigation.
Yes, dehydration can cause a temporary increase in protein levels in the urine. However, consistently high levels of protein indicate a potential kidney problem.
Proteinuria often has no symptoms in the early stages. However, in more advanced cases, symptoms can include frothy or bubbly urine, edema (swelling), fatigue, and loss of appetite.
Depending on the cause, proteinuria can often be managed by treating the underlying condition, maintaining a balanced diet, staying well-hydrated, and regularly monitoring your health.
While the primary purpose of this test is to evaluate kidney function, abnormalities in protein excretion can also indicate other conditions, such as lupus or hypertension.
The frequency of testing depends on your individual health status and your healthcare provider's recommendations, especially if you have a condition that can affect kidney function.
Yes, this test can be performed during pregnancy, especially if the pregnant woman is showing symptoms or risk factors for preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to organs like the liver or kidneys.
Yes, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, restricting salt intake, and following a balanced diet can help in managing conditions causing proteinuria.
Treatment for proteinuria focuses on managing the underlying cause. In many cases, this can result in a significant reduction in protein levels in the urine.
If you forget to collect some of your urine, it's important to let your healthcare provider know, as this can affect the accuracy of the test results.
Other tests that might be done alongside this test include blood tests to evaluate kidney function, urinalysis, and imaging tests of the kidneys.
The Protein Total, 24 Hours Urine Test is a valuable tool in assessing and monitoring kidney function and health. By being informed about the purpose and process of this test, you can better manage your health and work collaboratively with your healthcare provider towards optimal health outcomes.
Login / Signup
