Proteinuria (Protein in urine) is a concern for many patients with kidney
diseases, such as PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease), Diabetic Nephropathy,
Nephrotic Syndrome, IgA Nephropathy and so on. To a large extent, proteinuria
will be presented as foamy urine for many patients. That is why many patients
are worried whether they have proteinuria when they have the experience of foamy
urine. And they really doubt whether kidney damage occurs. However, the fact is
not as what it appears.
On one hand, not all foamy urine indicates proteinuria.
Foamy urine can be caused by a lot of factors:
1. If the urine contains some organic substances (which can be glucose) or
inorganic ingredients (mineral salt), the foamy urine will also occur.
2. If one presents too much protein at a time or one consume little water,
foamy urine can also presents.
3. The angle or speed when urinating can also lead to formation of foamy
urine, especially for man.
4. After fierce activities, emotional fluctuations or long time standing can
also lead to foamy urine.
On the other hand, proteinuria is not always caused by kidney damage.
Even a normal person will present a little protein in urine, which the amount
is not more than 0.15g in 24 hours. This kind of proteinuria can not be tested
out, which is negative on the test report. If the amount of protein in urine
increases, the foamy urine will occur.
What is more, other factors like high fever, serious pain, emotional stress,
fierce exercise, too much protein intake can also lead to the occurrence of
proteinuria.
In addition, foamy urine is not equal to kidney damage either.
Only foamy urine is far from enough to say a person has kidney damage. If one
is wondering if there is kidney damage when foamy urine occurs, they should go
to the hospital to perform a series of tests like blood test, urine test and
kidney function test.
In conclusion
Foamy urine does not necessarily indicate proteinuria and on the contrary,
both foamy urine and proteinuria can not be caused by kidney damage. People
should take certain tests to confirm.
