Hypoalbuminemia is a condition where the albumin levels in the blood fall below the normal range required for maintaining platelet function, transporting fatty acids and hormones, and avoiding edema. Albumin is the one of the most important proteins in the body and makes up 75 to 80 percent of the total protein count in the body.
Functions
Albumin is one of the major proteins in the body and is responsible for various important biochemical functions. One of the most important functions of albumin is transporting hormones, ions, drugs and other important substances to various parts of the body through the bloodstream. It does this by maintaining plasma pressure in red blood cells. Typically, albumin count should not be lower than 3.5 g/dL in the liver function test.
Symptoms
According to Chemo Care, the symptoms of hypoalbuminemia include edema or swelling, which usually starts in the legs first. This happens because of a disruption in the plasma pressure. Other symptoms include muscle weakness, cramps and a swollen abdomen. People with hypoalbuminemia are either diagnosed with malnutrition or not eating a proper diet. Albumin Research suggests that these symptoms are present only when albumin levels become lower than 2 g/dL.
Causes
The causes of hypoalbuminemia are varied, with the leading cause being a poor diet. Albumin is obtained from food; therefore low levels of this protein can be attributed to poor diet and nutrition. Factors such as liver disease, cancer and stomach infections can result in improper synthesis of albumin, because of which a large amount of this protein gets excreted.
Treatment
This condition can be easily reversed by changing your diet patterns to include foods rich in proteins. Most doctors will recommend a change in the diet and supplements. Eating well balanced meals with good protein content is also important. However, if you have hypoalbuminemia because of a liver disorder, your doctor may suggest a special diet. You should avoid alcohol since it can interfere with albumin synthesis in the liver.
Considerations
If you know that you are not eating well, then you can simply shift towards a balanced meal plan when you start noticing symptoms such as weakness and fatigue. However, if you experience nausea, muscle weakness that does not improve after diet changes, or fluid accommodation in the abdomen, then you must contact your doctor immediately.
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