Why is My Albumin Low?
Low albumin, also known as hypoalbuminemia, can result from several underlying health issues. It's crucial to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Several factors can contribute to low albumin levels:
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Liver Disease: The liver produces albumin, so liver damage or failure significantly impacts albumin production. Cleveland Clinic and Medical News Today both highlight this as a primary cause.
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Kidney Disease: Damaged kidneys may leak albumin into the urine, resulting in lower blood levels. This is supported by resources such as the National Kidney Foundation and Mount Sinai.
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Heart Failure: Heart failure can disrupt the body's fluid balance, leading to decreased albumin levels. This is mentioned in both Cleveland Clinic and Medical News Today articles.
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Gastrointestinal Conditions: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can impair the absorption of nutrients, including those needed for albumin synthesis. The Cleveland Clinic notes this as a potential cause.
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Malnutrition: Insufficient dietary protein intake directly impacts albumin production, as it's a key protein in the body. Medical News Today, Mount Sinai, and Cleveland Clinic all list malnutrition as a significant factor.
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Other Factors: Sepsis, burns, and certain medications (including birth control pills) can also contribute to lower albumin levels. This information is sourced from Medical News Today and MedlinePlus. Pregnancy can also cause temporary reductions in albumin levels. (MedlinePlus)
Determining the Cause
A doctor will perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and blood tests, to determine the precise reason for your low albumin levels. Further investigations, such as tests for liver function, kidney function, and inflammatory markers, may be necessary. The University of Rochester Medical Center highlights additional tests that might be used, such as CRP, Alpha-1 acid glycoprotein, ferritin, and ceruloplasmin. (University of Rochester Medical Center)
