Question 1

What is Hyperproteinemia?

Accepted Answer

Hyperproteinemia is a condition characterized by abnormally high levels of proteins in the blood. It is caused by chronic inflammation, infections like tuberculosis, multiple myeloma, or conditions that increase immunoglobulin production. The Protein, Total, Serum test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures total protein concentration in the blood.

Question 2

What causes hyperproteinemia?

Accepted Answer

Hyperproteinemia is caused by conditions that increase protein production or concentration in the blood. Chronic inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus trigger increased immunoglobulin production. Infections such as tuberculosis, hepatitis, and HIV stimulate the immune system to produce more antibodies. Multiple myeloma, a blood cancer, causes plasma cells to overproduce abnormal proteins. Dehydration can also cause relative hyperproteinemia by concentrating existing blood proteins when fluid volume decreases.

Question 3

What is the best test for hyperproteinemia?

Accepted Answer

The Protein, Total, Serum test is the most important test for hyperproteinemia because it directly measures the total concentration of all proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulins. This test provides the definitive diagnosis when levels exceed the normal range of 6.0-8.3 grams per deciliter. The Viscosity, Serum test is an essential secondary test that measures how thick your blood has become due to high protein levels, which helps assess complications like impaired circulation and increased risk of blood clots. Together, these tests identify both the condition and its potential impact on your health.

Question 4

When should I get tested for hyperproteinemia?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, bone pain, or unusual bleeding or bruising. Testing is important if you have been diagnosed with chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, as these increase your risk. You should also consider testing if you notice symptoms of thickened blood such as headaches, dizziness, vision changes, or numbness in your extremities. Anyone undergoing evaluation for suspected multiple myeloma or other blood disorders should have their protein levels checked.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of hyperproteinemia?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of hyperproteinemia vary depending on the underlying cause but often include persistent fatigue and weakness. You might experience headaches, dizziness, or confusion due to increased blood viscosity affecting circulation to the brain. Vision problems can occur when thickened blood affects the small vessels in your eyes. Some people notice numbness or tingling in their hands and feet. If multiple myeloma is the cause, you may have bone pain, particularly in the spine or ribs, along with increased susceptibility to infections and unexplained weight loss.

Question 6

Who is at risk for hyperproteinemia?

Accepted Answer

People with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or Sjogren syndrome are at higher risk because these conditions stimulate chronic antibody production. Those with chronic infections including tuberculosis, hepatitis B or C, and HIV face increased risk. Adults over 65 have higher rates of multiple myeloma, a primary cause of hyperproteinemia. People with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia or other plasma cell disorders are at significant risk. Anyone experiencing chronic dehydration or taking medications that affect protein metabolism should monitor their levels regularly.

Question 7

What happens if hyperproteinemia is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated hyperproteinemia can lead to hyperviscosity syndrome, where your blood becomes dangerously thick and impairs circulation throughout your body. This can cause stroke, heart attack, or blood clots in your lungs or legs. Vision loss can occur when thickened blood damages the delicate vessels in your retinas. If the underlying cause is multiple myeloma, untreated protein elevation signals cancer progression that can lead to kidney failure, severe bone damage, and life-threatening infections. Chronic hyperviscosity strains your heart, potentially causing heart failure over time.

Question 8

Can hyperproteinemia be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hyperproteinemia is definitively diagnosed with a blood test. The Protein, Total, Serum test measures the combined concentration of all proteins in your blood and is the primary diagnostic tool. When results show levels above 8.3 grams per deciliter, hyperproteinemia is confirmed. Additional blood tests like serum protein electrophoresis can identify which specific proteins are elevated, helping determine the underlying cause. The Viscosity, Serum test measures blood thickness to assess complications. These simple blood draws provide complete diagnostic information without invasive procedures.

Question 9

How is hyperproteinemia treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for hyperproteinemia focuses on addressing the underlying cause rather than the elevated protein levels themselves. If chronic infection is responsible, antimicrobial therapy or antiviral medications target the infectious agent. Autoimmune conditions require immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids or disease-modifying drugs to reduce antibody production. Multiple myeloma treatment involves chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplantation to control cancer cell growth. For severe hyperviscosity syndrome, plasmapheresis removes excess proteins from the blood immediately. Adequate hydration helps maintain normal blood viscosity and supports kidney function.

Question 10

How can I prevent hyperproteinemia?

Accepted Answer

Prevention focuses on managing conditions that trigger elevated protein production. Maintain proper treatment of autoimmune diseases with prescribed medications to keep inflammation controlled. Practice infection prevention through regular handwashing, staying up to date on vaccinations, and seeking prompt treatment for infections. Stay well-hydrated by drinking adequate water daily, especially during illness or hot weather, to prevent relative hyperproteinemia from dehydration. Regular medical checkups help detect underlying conditions early before protein levels become significantly elevated. If you have risk factors, periodic blood protein monitoring allows early intervention before complications develop.

Question 11

What can I do at home for hyperproteinemia?

Accepted Answer

At home, maintain excellent hydration by drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to help prevent blood from becoming too thick. Follow your prescribed treatment plan exactly as directed for any underlying autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. Monitor yourself for new symptoms like vision changes, severe headaches, or unusual bleeding that might indicate worsening hyperviscosity. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support overall immune function, though dietary protein intake does not directly cause hyperproteinemia. Keep a symptom journal to share with your healthcare provider, and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for monitoring blood protein levels.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Hyperproteinemia Blood Test

What is Hyperproteinemia?

What causes hyperproteinemia?

What is the best test for hyperproteinemia?

When should I get tested for hyperproteinemia?

References

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