Kidney Issues: Proteinuria and Hematuria Concerns

Kidney problems

Hello, Doctor:
1.
Is a urine protein level of 180 mg/L considered normal? (The reference value is 150 mg/L.)
2.
However, I have a urine occult blood result of 4+.
Is this related to excessive masturbation? After drinking more water, the color of my urine became lighter and didn't look as orange.
3.
I have seen a doctor who mentioned that it could be glomerulonephritis and advised me to continue monitoring whether it is primary or secondary.
I am considering rechecking my urine in six months.
Would that be too long if the results are the same? Thank you!

Zhe, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/07/31

Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine

1.
Is a urine protein level of 180 mg/L considered normal? (The reference value is 150 mg/gm.
Since 180 > 150 mg/gm, it cannot be considered normal.
However, this slightly elevated physiological urine protein may occur after intense exercise.
It is recommended to retest later.)
2.
But my urine occult blood is 4+.
Is this related to excessive masturbation? Because after I drink more water, the color becomes lighter and doesn't look as orange, which seems unrelated to masturbation.
3.
I have seen a doctor who mentioned that it could be glomerulonephritis and advised me to continue monitoring whether it is primary or secondary.
I was thinking of testing my urine again in six months.
If the results are the same, would it be too long to wait before starting active treatment? With urine protein and hematuria (urine occult blood is 4+), it is recommended to check every three months initially until the condition stabilizes, then switch to every six months.
Thank you for your inquiry; the nephrology department at Changhua Hospital is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2013/07/31

More Info

Understanding kidney issues, particularly proteinuria and hematuria, is crucial for maintaining kidney health and preventing potential complications. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Is a urine protein level of 180 mg/L considered normal?
The reference value for urine protein is typically around 150 mg/L, so a level of 180 mg/L indicates mild proteinuria. While this is not drastically elevated, it is above the normal range and should be monitored. Proteinuria can be a sign of kidney damage or disease, particularly if it persists over time. It is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and whether further testing is needed.

2. Could the 4+ hematuria be related to excessive masturbation?
Hematuria, or the presence of blood in urine, can have various causes, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, trauma, or glomerular diseases. While excessive physical activity, including masturbation, is unlikely to directly cause hematuria, it may lead to temporary changes in urine color due to dehydration or other factors. The fact that drinking more water has diluted your urine and changed its color suggests that hydration plays a role in your symptoms. However, a 4+ hematuria is significant and warrants further investigation. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

3. Is it advisable to wait six months to retest if the doctor suspects glomerulonephritis?
If your doctor suspects glomerulonephritis, it is generally advisable to follow their recommendations for monitoring and follow-up. While waiting six months may seem long, the decision should be based on your overall health, the severity of your symptoms, and the specific findings from your tests. If your proteinuria and hematuria persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms, it may be prudent to seek earlier evaluation. Regular monitoring is crucial in managing kidney health, especially if there is a concern for primary or secondary glomerulonephritis.
In summary, while a urine protein level of 180 mg/L is slightly elevated and should be monitored, the presence of 4+ hematuria is more concerning and should be investigated further. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms and any changes you experience. Regular follow-ups and testing can help ensure that any potential kidney issues are identified and managed promptly.
Additionally, lifestyle factors such as hydration, diet, and physical activity can influence kidney health. Staying well-hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet low in salt and protein, and avoiding excessive strain on your body can contribute positively to your kidney function. If you have any further concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.

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