Albumin is a protein produced by the liver and is essential for maintaining blood volume, fluid balance, and the transport of hormones, vitamins, and drugs. A low albumin level, known as hypoalbuminemia, can signal a variety of health problems.
- Causes of Low Albumin Levels:
- Liver Disease: Since albumin is made in the liver, conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, or fatty liver disease can lower albumin production.
- Kidney Disease: In kidney conditions like nephrotic syndrome, the kidneys may leak albumin into the urine, leading to lower blood levels.
- Malnutrition: A lack of protein in the diet or malabsorption disorders (like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease) can reduce albumin levels.
- Chronic Inflammation: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis, or long-term infections can lower albumin as inflammation increases protein breakdown.
- Health Implications:
- Low albumin levels can result in edema (swelling), particularly in the legs, due to the imbalance in fluid retention. It can also cause fatigue, muscle weakness, and delayed wound healing.
- Long-term hypoalbuminemia increases the risk of infections and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- Treatment Options:
- Addressing the Root Cause: Treatment involves managing the underlying condition, such as liver or kidney disease.
- Dietary Changes: For cases of malnutrition, increasing protein intake can help restore normal albumin levels.
- Medications: In cases of chronic inflammation, anti-inflammatory drugs or immunosuppressants may be necessary.
Recommended Tests:
- Liver Function Test (ALT, AST):
A liver function test measures enzymes and proteins in the blood, giving insights into liver health, which directly affects albumin levels.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) - Serum Creatinine Test:
This test helps assess kidney function, as poor kidney health can lead to albumin loss in urine, lowering blood levels of the protein.
Serum Creatinine
