Introduction
Albumin creatinine ratio (ACR) is a test that measures the amount of albumin in your urine compared to the amount of creatinine. This test is commonly used to assess kidney function and detect early signs of kidney damage. In this article, we will discuss how to measure ACR and what it means for your health.
Why Measure ACR?
Measuring ACR is important because it can help detect kidney damage early on, before symptoms appear. Early detection of kidney disease allows for prompt treatment, which can prevent or delay the progression of the disease. A high ACR may also indicate other health problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
How to Measure ACR
To measure ACR, you will need to provide a urine sample. Your healthcare provider will provide you with a container to collect the sample. It is important to collect the first urine of the morning, as this is the most concentrated and will provide the most accurate results.
The urine sample will be sent to a laboratory for testing. The laboratory will measure the amount of albumin and creatinine in the urine and calculate the ACR. The ACR is expressed as the amount of albumin in milligrams per gram of creatinine.
Interpreting ACR Results
A normal ACR is less than 30 mg/g. A high ACR may indicate kidney damage or other health problems. If your ACR is high, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
Factors That Can Affect ACR Results
There are several factors that can affect ACR results, including:
- Dehydration
- Exercise
- Infection or inflammation
- Medications
- High protein diet
If you are experiencing any of these factors, it is important to let your healthcare provider know before having the test done.
Conclusion
Measuring ACR is an important tool for assessing kidney function and detecting early signs of kidney damage. If you have any concerns about your kidney health, talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested for ACR. By catching kidney disease early, you can take steps to prevent or delay its progression and maintain your overall health.
Sources:
- https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/albuminuria
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/creatinine-test/about/pac-20384646