Albumin - 24 hours Urine

The Albumin - 24 hours Urine test is typically done to check for kidney disease or monitor an existing kidney condition. It may also be done to assess the risk of developing heart disease.

Fasting is not required for this test. You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor advises otherwise.

You should get this test done if you have symptoms of kidney disease such as swelling of the hands, feet, abdomen, or face; fatigue; shortness of breath; nausea; or foamy urine. This test may also be done regularly if you have diabetes or high blood pressure, as these conditions increase the risk of kidney disease.

The test measures the amount of albumin in your urine. This is used to assess kidney function as the kidneys should normally retain albumin in the bloodstream.

You should avoid rigorous exercise before and during the 24-hour urine collection period, as this can interfere with the test results.

Various factors can affect the results, including dehydration, rigorous exercise, blood in the urine, certain medications, and high fever.

Normal values can range from 0 to 20 milligrams (mg) per day. However, it's important to note that normal ranges can vary slightly depending on the laboratory.

An abnormally high level of albumin in your urine may indicate kidney disease or another condition causing increased protein breakdown in the body.

If your results are abnormal, you should consult a nephrologist, a doctor who specializes in kidney disease.

Yes, you will collect all urine passed in a 24-hour period at home. The laboratory will provide you with a special container for collection and storage.

If you forget to collect some urine, contact the laboratory or your doctor for instructions. You may need to start the collection process over.

You can keep your kidneys healthy by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, managing diabetes and high blood pressure, and getting regular exercise.

You will start collecting urine after you wake up in the morning. You will urinate, but not into the container, and note the time. For the next 24 hours, urinate into the container every time you go to the bathroom, then store the container in a cool place. After the 24-hour period, urinate into the container one last time to complete the collection process.

The test is accurate and helps in the diagnosis and monitoring of kidney diseases. However, the results may be affected if the urine sample is not collected properly.

Yes, you can carry out your normal activities during the urine collection period, but avoid vigorous exercise.

The Albumin - 24 hours Urine test is a simple yet important diagnostic tool to check for kidney diseases or monitor existing kidney conditions. By assessing the amount of albumin in the urine over 24 hours, doctors can gain insight into how well your kidneys are working. An abnormal result may indicate a problem with kidney function, requiring further investigation or treatment.