Mildly Elevated Protein Levels
Greetings, I recently had some follow-up lab tests conducted, including assessments for ESR and cholesterol. According to my cardiologist, all other parameters related to kidney and liver function, as well as other tests, returned normal results. The sole anomaly noticed was a slight elevation in my protein levels, specifically by 0.1. Additionally, my CRP levels were normal. About four months ago, I underwent an SPEP, which also showed normal results, as did my CBC from the same timeframe. As I currently do not experience any symptoms, my doctor indicated that the slight increase in protein could be attributed to dehydration or variations in the testing procedure, including how the sample was transported. Despite his reassurance that there is no cause for concern, I find myself feeling anxious after researching this online. Should I consider requesting further tests? To provide context, my protein levels were 7.0 in April, falling within the range of 6.3 to 7.7, and they increased to 7.8. My albumin has shown an increase from 4.7 to 4.9, with a normal reference range of 3.5 to 5.2. Thank you for your advice!
Answers (1)
8/8/2025, 2:02:08 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious when faced with lab results, but it's reassuring that your other tests have come back normal and that your doctor is not concerned about the slight increase in your protein levels. Here’s a summary of your situation and suggested next steps:
Key Points:
- Your protein levels have slightly increased, but they remain within the normal range.
- Other kidney, liver, and inflammatory markers (like CRP) are normal.
- Your doctor suggests dehydration or testing variability as potential causes for this minor elevation.
Explanation:
Protein levels in the blood can fluctuate due to many factors. A small increase, like yours from 7.0 to 7.8 g/dL, is often not clinically significant, especially if you have normal levels of other important tests. Dehydration is a common cause; when you're not adequately hydrated, the concentration of proteins can appear higher.
Next Steps:
-
Hydration: Ensure you are well-hydrated, as this can help normalize your protein levels if dehydration was indeed a contributing factor. Aim to drink enough fluids throughout the day, particularly water.
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Follow-Up: Given that the increase is minor and your doctor is not concerned, it may not be necessary to request further tests immediately. However, if you feel reassured by having more information or if your anxiety persists, consider revisiting your doctor to discuss your concerns. A check-up to re-evaluate your protein levels in a few months might be adequate.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in your health. If you notice symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or any unusual changes, make a note of them, as they may warrant further discussion with your healthcare provider.
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Limit Online Research: Since researching medical conditions online can lead to unnecessary anxiety, consider focusing on reputable health information sources or discussing your concerns with your doctor for clarity.
Your health is important, and it's good to be proactive. If you have more questions or need reassurance, feel free to ask!
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