Remember that the information presented here is not intended to replace the care of your own doctor. Before making any changes in the management of
your own illness, you should consult your physician or other qualified medical professionals.
Question
I have
type 1 diabetes
(diagnosed six years ago at age 30) who recently had a high
microalbumin count in my urine sample. I was diagnosed with mild hypertension and put on an
ACE inhibitor. The sample was collected a day before I began menstruating...
could that have had an effect on the microalbumin reading?
Answer
As long as there were no abnormalities in the urine sample at the time the microalbumin was measured this would have no effect. If there is any question a repeat sample can be done. In addition to control of the blood pressure and use of an ACE inhibitor, close glucose control and stopping smoking if you smoke also help to prevent further kidney changes.
If repeat testing for microalbumin is planned, it should be done some time after stopping the ACE inhibitor,
as the ACEI may successfully reduce the microalbumin level to normal.
See
how to protect your kidneys for more information.