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Proteinuria refers to the presence of an abnormal amount of protein in the urine. Normally, the kidneys filter waste products from the blood while retaining essential proteins. However, when the kidney's filtering units, called glomeruli, are damaged, they may allow protein to leak into the urine. This can be a sign of underlying kidney disease, such as chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or diabetic nephropathy.

There are several types of proteinuria. Transient proteinuria can occur temporarily due to fever, strenuous exercise, or emotional stress. Orthostatic proteinuria is seen when protein is present in urine only when standing upright, but not when lying down. Persistent proteinuria, however, is a more serious indicator of kidney damage.

Symptoms of proteinuria are often absent in the early stages. As kidney function declines, individuals may experience foamy or bubbly urine, swelling in the hands, feet, face, or abdomen, and fatigue. Diagnosis is typically made through a urine test, such as a urinalysis or a urine protein-to-creatinine ratio.

Treatment for proteinuria depends on the underlying cause. If it is transient, no specific treatment may be needed. For persistent proteinuria due to kidney disease, management focuses on controlling blood pressure, managing diabetes, and often involves medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBs that can help protect the kidneys. Early detection and management are crucial to slow the progression of kidney disease and prevent complications.