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Can you put this in terms I can understand?

07/18/2008

Question:

I have a Micro Albumin/Creat ratio of 3,275 and a creat urine of 69. I`m also diabetic. What does this mean for me?

Answer:

A urine microalbumin/creatinine ratio of greater than 30 is abnormal, and means that your kidneys are leaking protein (instead of keeping the protein in your bloodstream and your body). This is an early sign of kidney damage, probably due to your diabetes. Your blood creatinine should also be checked, because if that is elevated, it will mean that your kidneys are not doing a normal job of getting rid of waste products.

You should be under the care of a nephrologist (kidney specialist), who – along with your family doctor – can help you to preserve and possibly improve your kidney function. Important things to achieve as far as helping your kidneys are:

1. Maintain excellent blood sugar control.

2. Take medications to keep your blood pressure well-controlled.

3. Do not smoke.

4. Lose weight if you are above your ideal body weight.

5. Take cholesterol-lowering drugs if needed.

It is very important for you to try to achieve these 5 goals in order to prevent further kidney damage – do your best!

For more information:

Go to the Quality Health Care and You – Diabetes health topic.