Treatment Of Hypoalbuminemia In Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome patients often suffer from hypoalbuminemia (low level of protein in the blood).

To have effective treatment, we need first to know what is the cause of hypoalbuminemia. Nephrotic syndrome causes loss of excess proteins in urine (proteinuria) and this will promote the synthesis of albumins in the liver. However too much protein loss will beyond the liver’s ability and cause low protein levels in the blood. Besides, poor appetite, inadequate protein intake, malabsorption can all cause and worsen hypoalbuminemia.

Hypoalbuminemia can cause loss of body weight without trying, fatigue, memory problems, anemia, dizziness, swelling and hyperlipidemia. Since all the tissues and organs in the body need proteins, hypoalbuminemia can cause sexual dysfunction, amenorrhea, osteoporosis, etc. Immune system will be affected too and patients will have weak immunity and low disease-resistance ability.

According to the symptoms of hypoalbuminemia, patients can have an early detection. Effective treatment can be sought based on the exact causes.

Chinese medicine astragalus membranaceus is a natural herb for alleviating hypoalbuminemia. It can help strengthen liver functions so as to promote the synthesis of albumins in the liver and make up for the lost protein in urine. Besides, astragalus membranaceus is beneficial to the kidneys and heart. It can help dilate blood vessels in the kidneys and the whole body so as to promote blood circulation and improve hypoxia and ischemia in the kidneys. It has mild diuretics property and can help alleviate swelling. It can also help lower high blood pressure and high blood sugar level so as to reduce potential renal damages due to abnormal blood pressure and blood sugar. Kidney dysfunction often cause heart failure and astragalus membranaceus can help activate the heart functions.

Besides, dialysis can cause hypoalbuminemia due to loss of large amount of proteins. Therefore dialysis patients should have proper increase of protein intake through proper diets once dialysis is begun. High-quality proteins such as fresh water fish, egg white, lean meat and milk are all good choice.