What does it mean if you have protein in your urine?

It depends how much: Studies show most causes of a positive urine dipstick for protein are from benign causes such as fever, exertion, and emotional stress.Microscopic analysis can give more clues. Large amounts of persistent proteinuria require evaluation with a 24 hour urine collection. Hypertension, NSAIDS,diabetes, certain cancers, lupus, and urinary tract infections can also cause it.http://tinyurl.com/jl8hurb