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Albumin Blood Test: What Your Results Mean

Albumin is the most abundant protein in your blood, produced exclusively by the liver. It maintains fluid balance between blood vessels and tissues, transports hormones, medications, and fatty acids, and reflects your overall nutritional status. Because the liver is the sole source of albumin, this marker is a reliable indicator of both liver function and nutritional health.

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Normal Range

3.5 – 5.0 g/dL

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Unit

g/dL

What Your Results Mean

Normal

A normal albumin level indicates that your liver is synthesising protein effectively and that your nutritional status is adequate. Your body has enough albumin to maintain blood oncotic pressure and to carry essential substances throughout the bloodstream.

High

Elevated albumin is most commonly caused by dehydration, which concentrates proteins in the blood. It is rarely a sign of underlying disease on its own and usually normalises once you are adequately hydrated.

Low

Low albumin (hypoalbuminaemia) may indicate liver disease, kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome), malnutrition, chronic inflammation, or protein-losing enteropathy. It is associated with oedema, impaired wound healing, and increased sensitivity to some medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does low albumin mean? expand_more
Low albumin typically points to liver disease, kidney problems that cause protein loss in urine, malnutrition, or chronic inflammatory conditions. Because the liver produces albumin, any impairment in liver function will reduce levels over time.
What does high albumin mean? expand_more
High albumin almost always reflects dehydration, which concentrates blood proteins. Drinking adequate fluids usually corrects it. On its own it is rarely a sign of serious disease.
What is the normal albumin level? expand_more
Normal albumin is 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL. Levels below 3.5 g/dL are classified as hypoalbuminaemia and should be investigated to find the underlying cause.
How can I improve my albumin levels? expand_more
Eat adequate protein from quality sources, address any underlying liver or kidney condition, and manage inflammation. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate treatment once the root cause is identified.
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