Elevated creatinine

Elevated Creatinine

Creatinine is a waste product that is produced continuously during normal muscle breakdown. The kidneys filter creatinine from the blood into the urine, and the levels of creatinine can provide a rough estimate of kidney function. An elevated creatinine level signifies impaired kidney function or kidney disease.

Causes of Elevated Creatinine

Elevated creatinine levels can be caused by various conditions, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, dehydration, and certain medications. Other causes can include high levels of dietary protein or strenuous exercise, which can increase muscle breakdown and thus creatinine production.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work effectively. CKD is a common cause of elevated creatinine levels. As kidney function declines, creatinine levels increase.

Acute Kidney Injury

An acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days. AKI causes a build-up of waste products in your blood and can affect other organs such as the brain, heart, and lungs. This can lead to an increase in creatinine levels.

Dehydration

Dehydration can also cause elevated creatinine levels. When a person is dehydrated, there is less fluid in the body to dilute creatinine and other waste products, which can cause these levels to rise.

Medications

Certain medications can cause elevated creatinine levels. These include some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Symptoms of Elevated Creatinine

Symptoms of elevated creatinine levels can vary depending on the underlying cause and how quickly the levels rise. Symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, confusion, nausea, and swelling in the arms and legs.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Elevated creatinine levels are usually discovered during routine blood tests. If elevated creatinine levels are found, further tests may be needed to determine the underlying cause. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may include medications, dietary changes, and in some cases, dialysis or kidney transplant.