When to Worry About Creatinine Levels: A Detailed Guide
Medically Reviewed By
Dr Divya Rohra
Written By Ankita Mishra
on Mar 19, 2025
Last Edit Made By Ankita Mishra
on Mar 19, 2025
According to the Indian Association of Nephrology, 17% of Indians suffer from chronic kidney diseases. The number is on the rise due to the increase in cases of diabetes, hypertension, and other NCDs in India. When the kidney function starts declining, the creatinine levels start rising.
These creatinine levels help us understand if the kidney is functioning properly or inflamed.
In this blog, you will learn all about creatinine, when to worry about its levels, and its effect on kidney health.
Keep reading and get to know your kidney a bit better!
What is Creatinine?
Creatinine is a waste product produced by the breakdown of muscle tissues and digestive proteins. The level of creatinine differs from person to person as it depends on muscle mass.
The product is filtered out by the kidneys with blood. Normally, the kidneys are very capable of removing waste. However, when kidney function deteriorates, it becomes difficult to filter out creatinine, and its level increases in the bloodstream.
Yes, a higher level of creatinine is something to worry about, and it is important to check your creatinine levels regularly to ensure that your kidneys are functioning well.
Normal Range of Creatinine For Indians:
Creatinine range can differ from individual to individual depending on their age, gender, muscle mass, and overall well-being. Here is an average normal range of the product in the blood.
|
Factors |
Range (mg/dL) |
|---|---|
|
Women |
0.5-1.1 mg/dL |
|
Men |
0.7-1.3 mg/dL |
|
Children |
0.3-.07 mg/dL |
|
Elderly Individuals |
Little higher than adults because of age-related kidney function decline. |
Little higher than adults because of age-related kidney function decline.
This table may help you understand your creatinine levels in your test reports, and you can take action accordingly, if necessary.
Also Read: To Know About Normal Creatinine Levels in Details-
What can cause high Creatinine Levels?
Multiple reasons can cause the elevation in the Creatinine levels, including kidney diseases and other medical conditions. The 8 major conditions include:
Chronic Kidney Diseases (CKD)
The condition is mostly caused due to diabetes or hypertension; the person experiences a progressive decline in kidney function leading to increased levels of creatinine due to mismanaged filtration.
Urinary Tract Obstruction
Conditions like kidney stones and enlargement of the prostate gland can lead to obstruction in kidney functioning and higher levels of creatinine in the body.
Hypertension
Yes, it can impair filtration because high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, thus increasing the product levels.
Diabetes
Diabetic Nephropathy is a leading cause of concern in India. Unmanaged diabetes can lead to multiple conditions in the body, including damaged kidneys and hampering the filtration of waste accumulated in the bloodstream.
Also Read: To Understand Diabetes and its contributing factors.
Unhealthy and High Protein Diet
Regular junk intake is known to hamper cholesterol levels, which can lead to an unhealthy fluctuation in blood pressure that damages kidney blood vessels.If you consume excessive protein in your meals without professional supervision, it can harm your kidneys directly, so avoid too much red meat or protein supplements.
Also Read: To Know All about Kidney Health and Protein Intake
Dehydration
Forget to drink enough water?Well, then, your kidneys may be crying for help.If you are not drinking enough water, it can reduce blood flow in the body and temporarily spike your creatinine levels. You can reverse this by drinking enough water.
Girls, get that tumbler you have been eyeing; your kidneys need it!
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
This is a temporary condition caused by dehydration, infections, or medical side effects. It causes a sudden decline in kidney function, leading to an increase in creatinine levels.
Muscle Disorders
If you have a condition like rhabdomyolysis, where your muscle breaks down rapidly, it can cause increasing levels of creatinine in your body and lower kidney functioning.
Increased levels of this waste product can cause very serious health conditions, so managing the levels of it is important.
When to worry about Creatinine levels?
Well, if there is a mild spike in the levels of creatinine in your bloodstream, that is not something to worry about. However, if you are noticing a consistent increase, that means medical attention is necessary.
There are multiple warning signs that you can be attentive to:
Levels above normal range
If you have been experiencing a persistent rise in the levels above 1.5 mg/dL for males and above 1.2 mg/dL for females, it is worrisome, and it is recommended that you see your healthcare provider ASAP.
Symptoms of Kidney Disorders
Swelling
If you are experiencing pain and swelling in your legs, feet, and face, that can be due to fluid retention in your body.
Fatigue
Are you constantly tired and feel like lying down all the time? This can be due to an increase in the buildup of toxins in the body.
Reduced Urination
Has your urination frequency reduced? It can be a sign of poor kidney health.
Vomiting and Nausea
The accumulation of waste products in the body due to a low filtration rate can lead to nausea and vomiting.
Sensitive and Itchy Skin
High urea levels in the body can lead to itchy skin and high sensitivity.
Rapid increase in Creatinine Levels
If creatinine levels suddenly spike, it can exacerbate any acute kidney injury that may need immediate attention.
Why is a High Creatinine level a problem?
Why is an increase in the creatinine level a problem? Here are some of the reasons:
Kidney Dysfunction
High Creatinine levels are an indication of kidney malfunctioning, i.e., that the kidneys are not filtering out waste products properly, and can be a sign of potential kidney damage.
Underlying condition
Unmanaged levels of creatinine can be a sign of underlying conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or some progressing kidney problem.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
This can lead to any severe kidney condition, which, in the long run, may need dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Keeping your creatinine levels in check is as important as managing your weight or any other condition in your body to prevent long-lasting health issues.
Also Read: Importance of Regular KFT Test
4 Effective Ways to Manage Your Creatinine Levels:
If you have been diagnosed with high creatinine levels, some ways can help you reduce levels and manage your kidney health better.Small changes make a huge difference in the body, certain lifestyle changes can play a huge role in managing your health.Here are some ways you can manage your kidney health:
Hydration
Start drinking at least 3-5 liters of water daily to better support your kidney filter. Depending on your preference, you can also include coconut water and barley water in your routine.
Necessary Dietary Changes
You can make some changes in your meals and make your kidneys happy.
Lower Protein Intake
Limiting your intake of red meat, protein supplements, or dairy products will help you reduce your creatinine levels.
Avoid Processed Food
Cut down on junk food and try including home-cooked meals in your diet, as processed food has a high salt content and can strain your kidneys.
Include Fiber Rich Food
Go for green veggies, fruits, and whole grains to get your kidneys feeling right and get them back on track.
Also Read: To Know Best Foods for Your Kidneys
Control Underlying Conditions
You can keep your blood sugar and blood pressure levels in check as they indirectly damage the kidney and impact its working.
Review your Medication
Many medications can slowly impact your kidneys, so consult with your doctor to make sure yours isn’t doing that to you. If yes, change the course as soon as possible with proper doctor guidance.
Key Takeaway
Understanding your creatinine levels is important to detect kidney issues early. Early detection is the key to any health problem, and it gives you time to reverse your condition without any major health trouble.
If you notice abnormal creatinine levels or symptoms of kidney disease, consult a nephrologist for proper evaluation and treatment.
You can maintain optimal kidney health and prevent long-term complications by staying informed and making necessary changes.
Monitor your creatinine levels with a Kidney Function Test (KFT) and take care of your kidney health.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is High Creatinine level Reversible?
This depends on the cause of the condition. If it is due to dehydration, it can be reversed immediately. However, if it is caused by CKD, it can take time to reverse the condition, and it may require long-term management.
How often should Kidney Function be Tested?
For healthy individuals, a KFT Test once yearly is more than enough, however, if you have any medical condition it is recommended that you get tested every 3-6 months.
Are high Creatinine Levels Dangerous?
If the creatinine levels are not managed it can be dangerous and may you to getting dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Can stress lead to high creatinine levels?
Yes, chronic stress can affect kidney functioning and lead to high creatinine levels in your body.
Can drinking more water lower creatinine levels?
Yes, hydration can reverse creatinine levels, so if you are diagnosed with high levels of the product, you can increase your intake of water. However, if it is caused by chronic conditions, then it may need medical attention and treatment.
