Several diseases and conditions can affect albumin levels, primarily causing low albumin levels.
Albumin is a protein made by your liver. It plays a crucial role in keeping fluid in your bloodstream, so it doesn't leak into other tissues. It also carries various substances throughout your body, including hormones, vitamins, and enzymes. When albumin levels are abnormal, it can indicate an underlying health problem.
Conditions Associated with Low Albumin
Low albumin levels (hypoalbuminemia) can result from various health issues:
- Kidney Diseases: Kidney problems can cause albumin to leak into the urine, lowering its levels in the blood.
- Malabsorption Issues: Conditions affecting the intestine's ability to absorb nutrients can lead to low albumin. Examples include:
- Coeliac Disease: An autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, damaging the small intestine.
- Crohn's Disease: A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract.
- Ulcerative Colitis (UC): An inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine and rectum.
- Malnutrition: Insufficient protein intake can lead to reduced albumin production.
High Albumin Levels
High albumin levels (hyperalbuminemia) are less common and are typically a sign of dehydration.
In summary, diseases affecting the kidneys and the intestines, as well as malnutrition, can significantly affect albumin levels. Dehydration is often linked to increased albumin levels.
