Yashoda Hospitals > Diagnostics > Creatinine Test

What is the Creatinine Test?

The creatinine test is a test that measures creatinine levels in your blood or urine to know if your kidneys are functioning correctly. Creatinine is a chemical compound that is a naturally produced substance in our bodies. The kidneys filter this substance and throw it out through urine. This test measures the creatinine level formed during regular or everyday activity to find if your kidneys are functioning properly.

What is the Creatinine Test used for?

The creatinine test is used to measure creatinine levels, whose high levels may indicate kidney dysfunction. Your doctor may order this test if you face symptoms such as fatigue, foamy urine, etc. This test involves some associated tests called blood urea nitrogen (BUN) or comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP). A CMP is a group of tests that diagnoses different organs, including the Creatinine Test.

Understanding the test results of the Creatinine Test

Creatinine levels are measured in milligrams of creatinine per deciliter of blood (mg/dL) or micromoles of creatinine per liter of blood (micromoles/L). Normal creatinine levels vary between men and women. 

Normal range of Creatinine test based on age and gender:

 

Gender

Age Range

Normal Creatinine Levels (mg/dL)

Men

18 – 60 years

0.9 – 1.3

Women

18 – 60 years

0.6 – 1.1

 

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    References

      https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/creatinine-test/about/pac-20384646
      https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/creatinine-test/
      https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/be-aware-of-kidney-damaging-foods
      https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322380#summary

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Normal creatinine levels differ in urine and blood tests. In urine, the results are based on factors such as muscle mass and age. For males, the normal range is typically 7 to 16 mmol/day, while for females, it is usually 5.3 to 14 mmol/day. Conversely, blood tests show normal creatinine levels between 0.7 and 1.3 mg/dL in males and 0.5 and 1.1 mg/dL in females. However, individual factors should be considered, and a healthcare professional's interpretation is advised.

    The creatinine test is necessary to detect kidney disease. You might need this test if you're experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, decreased appetite, frequent and painful urination, foamy or bloody urine, puffiness around the eyes, or swelling in your feet and/or ankles.

    In a creatinine blood test, a healthcare technician will draw a blood sample by inserting a small needle into a vein in your arm. For a creatinine urine test, you will be instructed by your healthcare professional to collect your urine in a provided container. The samples are then sent to laboratories for analysis. This test measures the amount of creatinine in your blood compared to the amount in your urine over a 24-hour period.

    High creatinine levels in the blood, often indicative of compromised kidney function, might show symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, and changes in urination patterns. These symptoms could suggest kidney conditions including autoimmune diseases, bacterial infections, diabetic complications, blocked urinary tract, or heart failure. Early consultation with a healthcare professional is important for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of high creatinine levels.

    To naturally reduce creatinine levels, ensure proper hydration, adjust your diet by decreasing high-protein foods and increasing fiber intake. Regular exercise, diabetes management, and blood pressure monitoring are all recommended. Consult your healthcare provider about medications. Reduce your intake of salt, processed foods, and avoid excessive NSAID use. Quit smoking, limit alcohol, and seek medical advice before making major lifestyle changes for kidney health improvement.

    Low creatinine levels might indicate muscular or kidney problems. Causes include muscle diseases, malnutrition, and advanced liver disease. Symptoms might involve muscle weakness or fatigue. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, which could include improved nutrition or managing health conditions. Consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and proper guidance on treatment options if you suspect or are diagnosed with low creatinine levels.

    To increase creatinine levels, consider exercise and diet. Gentle workouts and an increased intake of creatine-rich foods can help, especially for vegetarians with limited protein intake. High-intensity exercisers can safely use creatine supplements. Notably, the body naturally produces creatine; most people who follow a healthy diet don't need supplements. Low creatinine levels may indicate problems such as liver disease, which is frequently accompanied by symptoms. Proper medical assessment is vital. Generally, diet adjustments can help with low levels.

    Before a creatinine test, there are specific precautions to follow. Your doctor might advise you to avoid eating cooked meat, as it can elevate creatinine levels in your blood or urine. Additionally, fasting overnight may be required before the test.

    If your creatinine levels are high, your doctor generally advises avoiding eating high-protein foods such as processed meat, dairy products, and canned foods. Additionally, vegetable protein sources such as beans should be included in one's diet.

    Concern about creatinine levels if they consistently rise above the normal range. Elevated creatinine may indicate kidney dysfunction. Consult a healthcare professional if levels remain high, as it could signify underlying health issues that need evaluation and management.