A 24‑hour urine protein test measures total protein excreted in urine over a day. Small amounts (<150 mg/day) are normal; persistent higher levels indicate kidney damage or disease (e.g., glomerulonephritis, diabetic or hypertensive kidney disease). Very high excretion (>3.5 g/day) suggests nephrotic syndrome. Transient proteinuria can occur with fever, exercise, infection or pregnancy. Persistent elevation needs further evaluation and treatment.

Normal protein excretion in a 24‑hour urine collection is less than 150 mg/day. Urine albumin is normally under 30 mg/day; 30–300 mg/day is termed microalbuminuria, and ≥300 mg/day (≥0.3 g/day) indicates overt proteinuria. Persistent or increasing proteinuria warrants further evaluation by a healthcare professional.

To reduce 24‑hour urine protein, control blood pressure and blood glucose (use ACE inhibitors/ARBs if prescribed), follow a low‑salt diet, maintain healthy weight through exercise, stop smoking, and manage lipids. Avoid nephrotoxic drugs (NSAIDs) and limit dietary protein only if advised by your clinician. Treat underlying causes and have regular follow‑up with urine testing to monitor response.

Costs for a 24‑hour urine protein test vary by country and provider. In the UK it is usually provided free through the NHS. In India private labs typically charge roughly ₹300–₹1,200. In the US out‑of‑pocket prices commonly range from about $20–$200, though insurers often cover it. Prices depend on location, lab and insurance—check your local provider for exact charges.

Normal adult urine output over 24 hours is typically about 800–2,000 mL (roughly 0.8–2.0 L) with usual fluid intake (~1.5–2 L/day), averaging ~1.5 L. Oliguria is <400 mL/24h, anuria <100 mL/24h, and polyuria >2,500–3,000 mL/24h. Values vary with fluid intake, medications, medical conditions and age.

Protein in the urine (proteinuria or albuminuria) can appear early—often as microalbuminuria in CKD stages 1–2, indicating kidney damage even with near‑normal GFR. Heavier, persistent proteinuria usually reflects progression to stage 3 or beyond as GFR falls. Staging requires both GFR and albuminuria measurements, so any proteinuria warrants further evaluation and monitoring.