Symptoms and the cause of low protein in the blood

The human body consists of many different cells, the most important building material for which is considered protein. The lack of it prevents the normal work of muscles, slows the renewal of cells, the formation of hormones and enzymes.

The role of protein in the body

Before you determine the cause of a low protein in the blood, you need to understand exactly what its role in the human body. The protein is an organic compound consisting of amino acids in different combinations. In the human body, it refers to one of the most important components, and existence without it is simply impossible.

Among the basic functions of protein, it is necessary to allocate such:

• building;
• transport;
• protective;
• power;
• regulating.

The building function is characterized by the fact that proteins form the basis of all cells of the human body and help to update the cells of the epithelium. In addition, it performs a protective function, is required for normal activity of the immune system, participates in the process of blood clotting.

In addition to the basic functions, the protein in the body performs many others, as it provides various intracellular processes, regulates acid-base balance, ensures normal functioning of the nervous system.

Protein norm

A blood test can determine the amount of protein and its individual components. According to the available indicators, it is possible to determine the lack of it in the body, based on existing norms. It is worth noting that the norm of the protein content in the blood in women and men is about the same, there are only differences depending on age. That's why the norm is considered to be such indicators( gram / liter):

• newborns - 43-76;
• children 1-5 years old - 60-74;
• children 5-15 years - 51-77;
• adults - 64-83.

After the study, the norm of the amount of protein in the blood is determined depending on the age of the person. As a result, it is possible to draw conclusions regarding the course of pathological processes in the body.

Deficiency in the body

Regardless of the cause of low protein in the blood, various pathological processes occur. To date, protein deficiency occurs frequently. It affects people trying to get rid of excess weight, suffering from diseases of the digestive system, the endocrine system or vegetarians.

It is worth remembering that the indicators of total protein largely depend on proper nutrition, as the lack of vitamins can lead to deterioration of well-being.

Often the decrease in protein in the body is observed in childhood, during pregnancy, lactation, significant physical exertion, as well as prolonged stay of patients in bed.

The main causes of

There are a variety of reasons for the low level of protein in the blood, among which it is necessary to distinguish such:

• primary or alimentary failure;
• secondary deficiency;
• enhanced catabolism.

Primary insufficiency of develops as a result of insufficient intake of protein along with food. Often people who completely abandoned dairy and meat foods suffer from this, as well as those who restrict themselves to eating for some reason.

The cause of low protein in the blood can be the presence of internal diseases, as well as metabolic disorders. Deficiency of protein can be observed with severe burns, severe injuries, malignant tumors, and many other severe conditions. Among the main causes of low protein in the blood should be allocated such diseases:

• liver disease;
• digestive function disorder;
• malignant neoplasms;
• chronic kidney disease;
• injury;
• ascites;
• poisoning.

Deviation from the norm of the protein content in the serum indicates the presence of abnormalities in the body, and it is possible to identify the problem only when conducting a comprehensive survey. In this case, it is not recommended to self-medicate, as only a qualified doctor will be able to determine the cause of low protein in the blood and to appoint competent adequate treatment.

Signs of a lack of protein

It is important not only to know what causes the low total protein in the blood, but also take into account the symptoms of the disease. The lack of this substance in an easy degree can not be manifested at all, therefore, few associate deterioration in working capacity and fatigue with protein deficiency. If it becomes even smaller, then the first signs appear, which are expressed in:

• of strong weakness;
• headaches and sleeping problems;
• puffiness;
• of nervousness;
• pallor and rashes on the skin.

The lack of protein provokes the emergence of weakness, so it becomes difficult for a person to perform routine daily activities, there is lethargy, apathy, trembling in the muscles. In addition, there is a depletion of the nervous system, there are various kinds of disorders.

Among the characteristic features can be identified slow healing of wounds, as the processes of recovery of cells and tissues necessarily require protein. Depending on the cause of the low protein in the blood, the consequences can be quite serious, as children develop and grow slower, and adults suffer from hormonal disorders, liver failure, anemia and vitamin deficiency.

When analysis of

is needed The causes of low total protein in the blood are associated with a variety of factors, but the consequences can be severe enough, so it is important to conduct a timely examination. Biochemical research is prescribed when:

• problems with the liver;
• severe burns;
• infectious diseases;
• power failure.

Correctly conducted timely examination will help to determine the presence of a problem, which makes it possible to get rid of it much quicker and easier. Analysis is given in the morning strictly on an empty stomach. Blood can be taken at other times, however, at least 8 hours have elapsed since the last meal.

How to raise protein

In order for the body to function properly, the lack of protein must be constantly replenished. With a significant decrease in protein concentration, you need to enrich your diet with products of animal origin. It is necessary to consume meat, vegetable proteins, fish, dairy products, eggs. If it is impossible to get rid of a lack of protein when adjusting the food, then it is necessary to carry out diagnosis and treatment in a hospital.

You can increase the protein content in the body by using medicines. For a quick and sustainable result, multivitamin complexes and a special diet are prescribed. It is worth remembering that not all proteins are equally split in the digestive system, since some of them are absorbed only partially, so the diet should be designed specifically by a nutritionist.

It should be remembered that you can not consume the same dishes, because the diet should be quite diverse. Many products containing protein, are high fat, so they need to be consumed in moderation. Increase the amount of protein food should be gradually, since the intake of large amounts of protein can become stressful for the body.

Features of the

diet Proteins required for normal functioning of the body are found in plant and animal foods. It is known that, due to its composition, animal protein is digested much easier. Some people need to consume a lot more proteins, in particular during pregnancy, lactation, those who engage in sports or heavy physical labor.

Treatment for pregnancy

The causes and treatment of low protein in the blood during pregnancy can be very different. During the gestation of a child, any indicators may deviate to a smaller or larger side without the presence of dangerous pathologies. This is due to hormonal changes.

However, sometimes a decrease in protein can indicate the presence of dangerous pathologies of the kidneys, profuse bleeding and anemia. That is why it is important to conduct timely diagnostics and, if necessary, treatment.

Before starting therapy in pregnancy, you must first determine the underlying cause of the pathological process. If the problem is related to the heart, then prescribe sparing medications. Kidney disorders are treated mainly in a hospital. Anemia requires the use of iron-containing drugs, as well as compliance with a special diet.