How do I Explain Creatinine Levels?

Doctors use creatinine levels to determine kidney functionality in people. For those who have diseases, such as diabetes or kidney disorders, an understanding of creatinine levels is crucial for them because these diseases can result in an abnormal level of creatinine and can cause kidney dysfunction. Creatinine levels can be determined by a blood or urine test.

Instructions

• 1

  Explain that creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles after physical activity or by eating meats. Use simple and easily understandable terms.

• 2

  Explain that healthy kidneys break down and expel creatinine, keeping the levels of creatinine in the body low.

• 3

  Determine if a person has diabetes or another disease that affects kidney function, or it the person is on certain medications that may also aftect the kidneys. If so, discuss the importance of creatinine tests to make sure the kidneys are working properly.

• 4

  Discuss the normal range for creatinine levels (0.6 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter). If the creatinine test results in a level above the normal range, it is important to consult a physician, preferably one who specializes in kidney care (also known as a nephrologist). A creatinine level between 2.0 and 10.0 indicates possible kidney problems, most likely caused by diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure. A level above 10.0 indicates a severe kidney problem, such as kidney failure, that will most likely require dialysis.

• 5

  Explain possible causes for high creatinine levels such as kidney dysfunction or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen. Kidney dysfunction is most often caused by high blood pressure or diabetes. Temporary increases in creatinine can also be caused by consuming large amounts of meat.

• 6

  Confirm the results with another blood or urine test. If the high creatinine levels were caused by a medication or dietary supplement, test again after stopping that drug or supplement.

• 7

  Take appropriate steps to alleviate the problem, such as stopping a medication that is affecting the kidneys or managing diabetes or high blood pressure.