Serum or plasma concentration of albumin (total protein component)

Why Albumin Levels Matter

Albumin plays a critical role in transporting nutrients, regulating blood pressure, and protecting tissues from damage. It’s also involved in the immune response. Your body produces albumin in the liver, and levels can drop if your liver isn’t working properly or if you’re not eating enough protein.

What Can Affect Albumin Levels?

Several factors can influence albumin levels, including diet (especially protein intake), liver disease, kidney disease, chronic illnesses like heart failure or cirrhosis, and certain medications. Stress, infections, or severe burns can also temporarily lower albumin.

Common Causes of Low Albumin

Low albumin (hypoalbuminemia) may be linked to conditions like malnutrition, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, or severe infections. In some cases, it can be a sign of how well your body is retaining fluids or supporting overall protein needs.

What If My Albumin Level Is Low?

If your test shows low albumin, your doctor may recommend dietary changes (more protein-rich foods), monitoring for fluid retention, or investigating underlying conditions like liver or kidney disease. Follow-up tests or treatments may be needed to address the root cause.