HomeAnswersNephrologyhematuriaWhy are my urine protein and blood levels fluctuating?

I have IgA neuropathy, is it normal for the protein and blood levels in the urine to fluctuate?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At April 22, 2017
Reviewed AtFebruary 6, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I was diagnosed with early IgA nephropathy, about five years ago, and I am on medication. Protein and blood are present in the urine, and their levels have varied over time, ranging from traces to ++. My recent urine analysis showed protein (+), erythrocytes (++), RBC (8-10 /HPF), creatinine (1.2 mg/dL), and eGFR (67). Does the fluctuating levels of protein and blood, present in the urine sample considered normal, given that I have been diagnosed with early IgA and undergoing medication? My concern is that the levels tend to fluctuate with every test (which is usually conducted at six monthly intervals). Your advice and views are appreciated.

Answered by Dr. Krishna Somani

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

  • To correctly answer your questions, I need to know the following.
      • I suggest you get a 24-hour urine for protein done. This will tell you the degree of kidney damage.

      Revert with more information to a nephrologist online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/nephrologist

  • Was biopsy done? If yes, then send the report.
  • Is your blood pressure under control?
  • What medicines are you currently taking?

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

The biopsy was done, and it was diagnosed as mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis or early IgA nephropathy. My BP is under control and is 125/80 mmHg. I take Cardace 10 mg and Minipress 2.5 mg as medication. And I also take Statins 10 mg for cholesterol. My microalbumin in spot urine was 143 mg/L with an ACR of 178 mg/g in my recent test. This is more or less in line with past trends over the years, although it suddenly spiked to 459 mg/L two years back, at that time my BP medication was increased. My creatinine has been at 1.2 mg/dL for the last three years. I usually do a spot microalbumin test. I also have a benign enlarged prostate problem, but I do not take any medications at present. My PSA total was 1.04 ng/mL and free PSA was 0.28, in the recent test. I also had a sore throat (mucus and irritation but no fever) three days before and during my recent blood and urine test. Would the benign enlarged prostate and sore throat have also contributed to the sudden increase in RBC?

Answered by Dr. Krishna Somani

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

  • Benign enlarged prostate (although uncommon at your age), is a common cause of microscopic hematuria.
    • And sore throat or upper respiratory tract infections precipitates IgA attacks on gross hematuria, which is not your case.
      • Keep your blood pressure under control, and check creatinine and UACR (urine albumin to creatinine ratio) every six months. Avoid all forms of painkillers.
        • Consult your physician and start with fish oil capsules for IgA nephropathy. They are free of any side effects.

        For further queries consult a nephrologist online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/nephrologist

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Krishna Somani
Dr. Krishna Somani

Nephrology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

hematuriakidney disorders

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Nephrology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy