1. Test for the Presence of Protein in Urine
The first step in preventing proteinuria, a condition in which the urine contains abnormal amounts of protein that can impair kidney function, is to determine the existing protein levels in your urine, so your doctor can assess whether they fall within the normal range or whether they are abnormally high. In order for you to be tested, you will need to provide a urine sample, which will then have a chemically treated strip dipped into it that will change color when the urine contains too much protein. If your test results are positive, your urine will have to undergo further laboratory testing to measure the exact amounts of protein and albumin. Should laboratory testing indicate abnormally high levels, you may need to undergo further testing to evaluate how your kidneys are functioning. A sample of your blood may also be tested to determine the presence of creatinine and urea nitrogen, waste products that should be removed from the blood by healthy kidneys. If your blood exhibits high levels of these, it may be further evidence of impaired kidney function.
2. Control Blood Glucose and Blood Pressure
If you have diabetes and/or hypertension, it will be necessary to control your blood glucose and blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, with or without diabetes, you may need to take a type of drug called an ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor or a similar type of drug called an ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker). Both of these drugs have been proved effective in protecting kidney function as well as in controlling blood pressure. It is recommended that blood pressure be kept below 130/80. Patients without diabetes may also be prescribed diuretics in addition to blood pressure medication to get rid of excess bodily fluids.
3. Stick to a Low-Salt, Low-Protein, Heart-Healthy Diet
The National Kidney Foundation recommends that any patients at risk for impaired kidney function, which is one of the associated risks of protoneuria, follow a diet that restricts both salt and protein. In addition to taking these dietary precautions to protect your kidneys, you can also reduce your risk for proteinuria by following a diet recommended for promoting cardiovascular health. Keep your diet low in fats, and increase your intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Also, reducing or eliminating tobacco and alcohol use promotes overall bodily health.
