High Creatinine: What It Means and What to Do Next
High creatinine (above 1.2 mg/dL) may indicate reduced kidney function. Creatinine is a waste product your kidneys filter out, and it accumulates when filtration declines. However, high creatinine also results from high muscle mass, intense exercise, and dehydration, so context matters.
What Causes High Creatinine?
Chronic Kidney Disease
Progressive loss of kidney function over months to years. Diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes.
Acute Kidney Injury
Sudden decrease in kidney function from dehydration, medications, infections, or obstruction.
High Muscle Mass
More muscle produces more creatinine. Bodybuilders and very muscular individuals may have naturally higher levels.
Dehydration
Reduced blood volume concentrates creatinine. Rehydrating and retesting often normalizes levels.
Medications
NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, and some antibiotics can temporarily raise creatinine by affecting kidney blood flow.
Associated Symptoms
What to Do Next
1. Retest to confirm
A single abnormal result should be confirmed with a repeat test. Temporary factors like stress, illness, or medications can affect results.
2. Related tests to consider
3. When to see a doctor
If your Creatinine is significantly abnormal, if you have severe symptoms, or if repeated results confirm the abnormality, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Related Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
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This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for interpretation of your results.
Content reviewed for accuracy by the JustLabs editorial team.