Does Your Body Swell Due To Loss Of Protein?

Losing protein is a seriously dangerous condition that could be a symptom of something greater or contribute to the exacerbation of other diseases. The primary symptom of protein loss is edema, or swelling, around the eyes, in the abdomen, hands and legs. This occurs when the protein level in the blood begins to deplete and water begins to seep from the blood vessels into various body tissues. If you are experiencing unexplained swelling, your doctor can perform a test to discover if you are suffering from this condition.

Functions of Protein

The composition of your body is primarily water, followed by protein, which contributes to about 17 percent of your body's weight. Proteins play a vital role in a multitude of essential biological functions including blood clotting, fluid balance, production of hormones and enzymes, and cell repair. Dietary proteins are used by the body not only for energy, but also to supply specific amino acids that contribute to the development and function of essential molecules within the body.

Causes of Protein Loss

Protein loss generally occurs when protein is excreted from the body through the urine. This condition is known as proteinuria or albuminuria. Proteinuria is often an indication that the kidneys and/or the blood vessels throughout the body are not functioning properly. If these conditions go untreated and worsen, they may develop into kidney or cardiovascular disease. In children, symptoms may indicate nephrotic syndrome or, in many third world countries, kwashiorkor.

Kidney Disease and Nephrotic Syndrome

Kidney disease generally occurs in individuals suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure, genetic predisposition or prolonged wear and tear associated with aging. The exact cause is unknown; however, it is an impairment that inhibits the kidneys' abilities to properly clean and filter blood. Nephrotic syndrome, which occurs primarily in children, is the inability of the kidney to properly filter protein and excrete water. This condition is generally treatable with prescription medications and most children will not see this condition develop into kidney disease.

Kwashiorkor

Kwashiorkor is an extreme form of malnutrition when the diet is excessively lacking in protein. This condition rarely occurs in children in the United States; however, it severely afflicts many children in countries where famine, natural disasters, political unrest and low levels of education are commonplace. Symptoms of the disease include edema, loss of muscle mass, skin pigment changes, no growth or weight gain, damage to the immune system and, most noticeably, a pronounced, protruding belly. Correcting nutritional deficiencies can improve the disease, but afflicted children will never reach full growth expectancy.