Protein, Urine (Dipstick, Qualitative)
Other names: Urine Protein (Qualitative), Protein—Urinalysis (Qual), Protein Dipstick
Urine Protein Dipstick Test (Proteinuria Screening)
This simple urine dipstick test checks whether protein is present in your urine. Normally, your kidneys filter waste but keep important proteins in the bloodstream. If the kidney filters (glomeruli) are stressed or damaged, protein can leak into the urine.
Results are qualitative, meaning they give a rough estimate rather than an exact measurement. They are reported as Negative, Trace, or graded 1+ to 4+, with higher numbers suggesting more protein loss.
Why protein in urine matters
Finding protein in urine (proteinuria) may be an early sign of kidney disease, especially in people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or abnormal kidney blood tests such as creatinine or eGFR.
Sometimes a positive result is temporary and not related to kidney disease. This can happen after strenuous exercise, fever, dehydration, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or during pregnancy (when extra checks for preeclampsia may be needed).
Understanding your result
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Negative: No protein detected. This is the normal finding.
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Trace: A very small amount of protein; often temporary. A repeat test is often recommended.
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1+ to 4+: Increasing amounts of protein. The higher the grade, the more concern for possible kidney involvement, and follow-up testing is usually needed.
Next steps and follow-up
If your test shows Trace or higher, your healthcare provider may:
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Repeat the test, ideally using a first-morning urine sample for accuracy
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Order a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) or protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) to measure protein more precisely
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Check related tests such as blood pressure, blood sugar, creatinine, eGFR, or order imaging studies
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Refer you to a kidney specialist (nephrologist) if protein persists
Lifestyle steps can also help:
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Stay well hydrated
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Control blood pressure and blood sugar
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Treat urinary tract infections promptly
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Avoid very intense exercise for 24–48 hours before repeat testing
How to prepare for testing
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Use a clean-catch, first-morning urine sample for the best accuracy
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Avoid heavy workouts, illness with fever, or dehydration before the test when possible
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