Significance of foam in the urine.

[TylEulenspiegel]

  I have Stage 3/Stage 4 CKD.  (It vacillates.)

  Sometimes, there is visible foam in my urine.  Sometimes, there is not.
  I have often wondered if either is an indication that I'm doing any better or any worse (at that particular point in time.)

  I am HOPEFUL that 'no visible foam' means my kidneys are functioning at least marginally better than when there IS visible foam present.  (I can't seem to tie it in to my protein consumption; neither as to the amount or when it's consumed.)

  I have recently chosen to be weaned off of a medication which has 'increased creatinine' and 'kidney disease' listed as RARE side effects.
  The literature also states that there is inadequate experience with this drug amongst the population having severe kidney disease and it should be used with caution in these patients.

  I am now halfway through the weaning process and I there is noticeably less foam in my urine than there was a month ago, while I was still on the full dose.
  Before, there was almost always at least SOME foam in my urine.
  Now, I'm seeing just a small amount about once every day, but there have even been a couple days when I've seen none at all.

  Is this definitely a good sign, or may it be absolutely meaningless as regards the severity of my kidney disease?
  
  

[TylEulenspiegel]

  Thank you, Dr. Santos!!

  (Ha, ha!!!  I 'monitor' the speed (and force) to take that factor out of the equation!!!  As best I can, anyway!!)

  I've now gone two full days in a row without seeing any foam at all.

  I accept that this doesn't necessarily mean that my condition is any better -- but I can't help but hold out a little hope!!

  I shall have labwork done next month and I will report back.
  If there IS any marked improvement, I shall mention the medication that I am discontinuing, so that anyone else who is on it and is having the same experience can explore the possibility (with their doctor) of their condition being worsened by the drug.

  Thank you again, Dr!!!

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
I understand your concern regarding the foam in your urine with the history of taking a certain medicine. Passing foamy urine may be attributed to a variety of factors such as the speed of urination and other factors. This could be normal if seen occasionally or may suggest more serious issues such as proteinuria if persistent.  Further tests may be requested to rule this out. Hope this helps. Take care and do keep us posted.