Protein in urine
Amount of protein in urine, usually measured with a dipstick as part of a urinalysis
Also known as
Definition
Healthy kidneys hold back large protein molecules while filtering the blood, so urine normally contains very little protein. This test measures how much protein is in your urine, usually with a dipstick as part of a urinalysis, sometimes in a 24-hour collection. Persistently raised levels are called proteinuria and can be an early sign of damaged kidney filters. The dipstick often misses small amounts of albumin; the albumin-to-creatinine ratio covers those.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Unit | mg/dl (random urine) or mg/24 h (24-hour collection) |
| Reference Range | Typical for adults: random urine 0–14 mg/dl, 24-hour collection 30–150 mg/24 h. Dipsticks often report only semi-quantitatively (negative, trace, +, ++). Labs and methods differ; the range printed on your own report is what counts. Discuss any deviation with your doctor. |
Agree on your personal target range with your doctor.
0–14 mg/dl equals 0–140 mg/l. These values refer to total urine protein; the albumin-to-creatinine ratio is a separate test with its own cut-offs.
↓ What a low value means
A negative result means no increased protein was detectable in your urine at the time of testing. A low value has no known clinical significance on its own. Keep in mind that dipsticks do not always pick up very small amounts of protein, such as low levels of albumin.
↑ What a high value means
A raised value does not automatically mean a condition that needs treatment. Protein in urine can rise temporarily, for example after strenuous exercise, with dehydration, because of diet, stress or during pregnancy. A urinary tract infection, vaginal fluid in the sample or contrast dye in the three days before the test can also affect the result. If the value stays high on repeat testing, this can be linked to kidney damage, for example with diabetes or high blood pressure, less often with heart failure or multiple myeloma. Further tests clarify the cause; discuss any deviation with your doctor.
When to test
The test is often part of a routine urine check. It is also ordered when there is a higher risk of kidney disease, for example with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or kidney disease in the family, and to monitor known kidney disease. No special preparation is needed; a clean-catch midstream sample is usual. Tell the practice in advance which medicines you take and whether you have your period.
Frequently asked questions
Is protein in urine after exercise a cause for concern? +
Not necessarily. Strenuous exercise, dehydration or stress can raise protein excretion for a short time. A repeat test is therefore often more meaningful. How to read a single raised result is something to discuss with your doctor.
How does this differ from the albumin-to-creatinine ratio? +
The dipstick test for protein detects all proteins in urine, including albumin, but only reacts above a certain amount. The albumin-to-creatinine ratio specifically measures small amounts of albumin that a dipstick can miss. Which test makes sense in your case is decided by your doctor.
Why is urine sometimes collected for 24 hours? +
The amount of protein in urine varies over the day. A 24-hour collection captures the total daily amount and therefore gives a more complete picture than a single sample. You receive a special container and instructions for collecting and storing the urine.
Are there home tests for protein in urine? +
Yes, home dipstick kits are available without a prescription and give accurate results when the instructions are followed carefully. An abnormal result does not replace a medical evaluation; ask your doctor which test is right for you.
Protein in urine
Sources
Last updated: October 05, 2026
This information is for orientation only and does not replace medical advice. Reference ranges can vary by laboratory, method and country.