When creatinine levels exceed standards, what is happening in your body?
Creatinine is a natural waste product generated during the body's energy expenditure. In healthy people, the kidneys filter creatinine through urine. However, when this index increases, it can be a signal that the kidneys are having problems with blood filtration.
According to Dr. Basavaraj S. Kumbar, an internal medicine specialist at Rutgers Medical University Hospital, New Jersey (USA): regular monitoring of creatinine levels helps detect early signs of kidney damage and promptly treat it before the disease becomes serious.
In adults, normal creatinine levels range from 0.6 to 1.3 mg/dL. Men tend to have a slightly higher index than women due to their larger muscle mass. However, this level can vary depending on age, health status or living habits. People who exercise or take dietary supplements containing createdine may also have a high glycemic index without necessarily getting sick.
Common warning signs of increased creatinine levels include fatigue, swelling in the limbs, shortness of breath, back pain or unusual urination. Some cases may be accompanied by blurred vision or high blood pressure. If these symptoms appear, patients should go to a medical facility for blood and urine testing.
24-hour creatinine and urine testing is a standard method to assess the kidney's filtering ability, says Dr. Kumbar. However, patients should not diagnose themselves, because many temporary factors such as dehydration, medication or a diet rich in protein can also increase this index".
Regular check-ups and lifestyle changes are key to protecting the kidneys
If detected early, the patient can adjust by drinking enough water, limiting salt, not abusing foods rich in protein and maintaining gentle movement. In case the disease progresses, the doctor will guide the appropriate treatment regimen to prevent complications.
Creatinine high is not a death sentence, but it is a signal that the body is calling for help, Dr. Kumbar emphasized. Just by paying attention to regular check-ups and living in moderation, we can protect our kidneys for life.
