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What Causes Low Protein Levels?
Question: My doctors office just called and the nurse said my protein levels from my blood tests yesterday were low and I need to come in for more blood tests and a urine test. She didn't say how low they were but what would cause it? I didn't fast before I had the tests because I didnt know I was having them could that affect it? I get really nervous about those things and dont have the new tests until next week. Anything to put my mind at ease would be wonderful.
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Brief Answer:
Finding the basic cause by investigations would help in management.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Low blood protein levels can be due to low protein intake/ improper balance of food ingredients/less absorption of food - (some digestive problem, liver problem)/more excretion of protein in the urine ( some kidney problem).
It's good that low protein in blood is noted... doctor would now proceed to find the basic cause by various laboratory tests (liver function tests, blood & urine tests to find possible Kidney problem & also to denote any digestive problem).
You should not worry, as once the basic cause is found the treatment would be easier... They may tell you to improve your diet pattern. Treatment of Digestive problem found would be corrected. Similarly, liver or kidney problem ( if found ) would be taken care of. Thus treatment of basic cause& diet management with a healthy lifestyle would help you in overcoming the issue.
You are already on the correct path, planning for tests next week... so be patient & positive till then. You can improve your protein intake ( milk, egg, sprouts..whichever suits you). Take some digestive enzyme Over the counter ( like Bystozyme ) till then & follow the instructions given by expert after getting relevant tests done.
Hope I have answered your query.
Take care
Regards,
Dr. Vasudha Jayant Athavale, General & Family Physician
Finding the basic cause by investigations would help in management.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Low blood protein levels can be due to low protein intake/ improper balance of food ingredients/less absorption of food - (some digestive problem, liver problem)/more excretion of protein in the urine ( some kidney problem).
It's good that low protein in blood is noted... doctor would now proceed to find the basic cause by various laboratory tests (liver function tests, blood & urine tests to find possible Kidney problem & also to denote any digestive problem).
You should not worry, as once the basic cause is found the treatment would be easier... They may tell you to improve your diet pattern. Treatment of Digestive problem found would be corrected. Similarly, liver or kidney problem ( if found ) would be taken care of. Thus treatment of basic cause& diet management with a healthy lifestyle would help you in overcoming the issue.
You are already on the correct path, planning for tests next week... so be patient & positive till then. You can improve your protein intake ( milk, egg, sprouts..whichever suits you). Take some digestive enzyme Over the counter ( like Bystozyme ) till then & follow the instructions given by expert after getting relevant tests done.
Hope I have answered your query.
Take care
Regards,
Dr. Vasudha Jayant Athavale, General & Family Physician
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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