Proteinuria: Kidney Health Concerns and Symptoms

Kidney proteinuria

Hello, doctor.
I have some questions I would like to ask you.

Question 1: This week, I observed that my urine has a lot of bubbles and appears cloudy after each bathroom visit.
I also experience pain in both sides of my lower back.
Could this indicate protein in my urine or a kidney problem?
Question 2: A while ago, I took Western medicine for about two months due to chronic tonsillitis (the first one and a half months) and then Chinese medicine for the last two weeks.
I did not take both types of medicine together, but could the long-term use of medication have caused damage to my kidney function?
Question 3: Is there a possibility that I might need dialysis? I really want to see a doctor, but there are no available appointments.
Additionally, I currently have a cough and runny nose due to a cold and am taking Western medicine.
Could this worsen my condition?
Question 4: Should I schedule an appointment with a nephrologist on Monday for an examination, or should I wait a few days to observe my symptoms? I appreciate your guidance, as I am worried since I cannot make an appointment during the holiday.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/03

Dr. Wu Hongjie reply Internal Medicine

1.
The presence of bubbles in urine does not necessarily indicate the presence of urinary albumin; actual conditions should be confirmed through testing.

2.
To assess kidney function, it is essential to conduct relevant kidney function tests (creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, hematuria, urine protein).
Even if kidney dysfunction is caused by medication, a diagnosis can only be confirmed through testing.

3.
In Taiwan, hospitals and healthcare services are widely accessible.
If you have any questions, it is advisable to visit a health department-certified hospital or clinic for examination.
Even for dialysis, clinical judgment must be based on test reports, urine output, and other factors.

4.
If there are any issues, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Wishing you health and safety.

Reply Date: 2018/02/03

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your kidney health and the symptoms you are experiencing. Let's address your questions one by one.

Question 1: Observing Bubbles in Urine and Side Pain
The presence of bubbles in your urine, especially if they are persistent and difficult to dissipate, can indeed be a sign of proteinuria, which is an indication that protein is leaking into your urine. This can be a symptom of kidney issues, particularly if accompanied by flank pain (pain in the sides of your lower back). The kidneys filter waste from the blood, and when they are not functioning properly, proteins that should remain in the bloodstream can spill over into the urine. It is essential to monitor this symptom closely, as it can indicate underlying kidney disease or dysfunction.

Question 2: Impact of Long-term Medication on Kidney Function
You mentioned taking both Western and Chinese medicine for chronic tonsillitis over a period of two months. While many medications can have side effects, including potential impacts on kidney function, it is essential to consider the specific medications you were taking. Some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain antibiotics can affect kidney health, especially with prolonged use. However, without knowing the exact medications, it is challenging to determine the risk. If you have concerns about your kidney function related to medication use, it is advisable to discuss this with a healthcare professional.

Question 3: Risk of Dialysis and Current Illness
Your concern about needing dialysis is understandable, especially with the symptoms you are experiencing. Dialysis is typically required when the kidneys are functioning at a critically low level (usually when the eGFR is below 15 mL/min). However, it is important to note that many conditions that cause kidney dysfunction can be reversible or manageable with appropriate treatment. Your current cold symptoms and medication use may complicate your situation, but they do not necessarily worsen kidney function unless you are taking nephrotoxic medications or have underlying kidney disease. It is crucial to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice.

Question 4: Seeking Medical Attention
Given your symptoms of proteinuria, flank pain, and your recent medication history, it is highly advisable to see a nephrologist (kidney specialist) as soon as possible. While you may want to observe your symptoms for a few days, the presence of bubbles in your urine and pain in your sides warrants prompt evaluation. A nephrologist can perform necessary tests, including blood tests to check creatinine levels and urine tests to assess protein levels, which will help determine the health of your kidneys.

In summary, your symptoms could indicate a potential issue with your kidney function, and it is crucial to seek medical evaluation. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and manage any underlying conditions effectively. If you are unable to see a doctor immediately due to the weekend, consider visiting an urgent care facility if your symptoms worsen or if you experience additional concerning symptoms. Your health is important, and addressing these issues promptly can lead to better outcomes.

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