Foamy Urine: When to Worry About Kidney Health

Q: Foamy Urine: When to Worry About Kidney Health

Hello： Whether or not there is foamy urine, please go to the hospital for testing to ensure accuracy. <br>Creatinine (cre)： 1.01; it is necessary to calculate the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) which should be eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73m²; and it must remain so when compar

I would like to ask the doctor about the issue of foamy urine?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I noticed that there are always bubbles in my urine.
I searched for some information online, but I'm not sure if it's accurate.
Some articles suggest that the first urine in the morning can be used to assess this, checking if the bubbles disappear within 5 minutes (other articles mention 10 minutes or 30 minutes).
I tested it myself, and the bubbles disappeared by more than half in 5 minutes, over two-thirds in 10 minutes, but after 30 minutes, there were still a few bubbles left at the edge of the toilet.
I had a health check-up on July 31 of this year, and my height is 161 cm, weight is currently 58 kg, blood urea nitrogen is 8.8, creatinine is 1.01, uric acid is 7.1, and urine specific gravity is 1.015.
I wonder if these values indicate any kidney issues...
Should I go to the hospital for further examination? I would greatly appreciate your guidance.
Thank you!

Mr. Zhang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/24

Dr. Wu Hongjie reply Internal Medicine

Hello: Whether or not there is foamy urine, please go to the hospital for testing to ensure accuracy.
Creatinine (cre): 1.01; it is necessary to calculate the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) which should be eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73m²; and it must remain so when compared to the last three months to be classified as chronic kidney disease.
Your eGFR is approximately 95, and if there is no proteinuria greater than 0.15 grams/day, it cannot be defined as chronic kidney disease.

Reply Date: 2020/10/24

More Info

Foamy urine can be a concerning symptom, particularly when it comes to kidney health. The presence of bubbles in urine can be attributed to several factors, including the concentration of urine, the speed of urination, and the presence of protein. When urine is foamy, it may indicate proteinuria, which is the presence of excess protein in the urine. This can be a sign of kidney damage or disease, as healthy kidneys typically filter out protein effectively.

In your case, the fact that you have noticed foamy urine consistently is worth investigating further. The method you mentioned—observing how long the bubbles last after urination—can provide some insight. If the bubbles dissipate quickly, it may not be a significant concern. However, persistent foamy urine, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling in the legs, fatigue, or changes in urination patterns, warrants a medical evaluation.

Your recent lab results show a blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 8.8 mg/dL, a creatinine level of 1.01 mg/dL, and a uric acid level of 7.1 mg/dL. These values are generally within normal ranges, but it’s essential to consider them in the context of your overall health and any symptoms you may be experiencing. A creatinine level of 1.01 mg/dL suggests that your kidney function is likely normal, as normal ranges typically fall between 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for most adults. However, kidney function can be affected by various factors, including hydration status, muscle mass, and underlying health conditions.

Given your concerns about foamy urine, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. A urinalysis can help determine if there is protein in your urine, and if so, how much. A urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (PCR) test can provide a more accurate assessment of proteinuria. If protein levels are elevated, additional tests may be necessary to determine the underlying cause, which could range from benign conditions to more serious kidney diseases.

In addition to laboratory tests, your healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the structure of your kidneys and rule out any abnormalities. It’s also essential to discuss any other symptoms you may have, such as changes in blood pressure, swelling, or fatigue, as these can provide valuable information about your kidney health.

In summary, while occasional foamy urine may not be a cause for alarm, persistent foamy urine, especially in conjunction with other symptoms, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Your current lab results suggest that your kidney function is likely normal, but further testing can help clarify the situation. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to kidney health, so scheduling an appointment with your doctor for a comprehensive evaluation is a wise decision.

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