The Creatinine test is a simple blood test that measures the creatinine level in the blood. Creatinine is a metabolic byproduct generated from normal muscle activity. It is usually removed from the body through the kidneys via urine. When the kidneys are not working well, creatinine clearance decreases, leading to higher levels in the blood, which can be a sign of kidney dysfunction.

Elevated creatinine can also be linked to lifestyle diseases such as diseases of heart, high blood pressure, and diabetes, which are major risk factors for kidney failure. In cities like Noida, where such diseases are common, regular creatinine testing is crucial for the early detection and management of kidney-related problems.

The Serum Creatinine test is used to monitor kidney health and diagnose various lifestyle diseases. It can be performed alone or as part of a metabolic panel or kidney function tests during routine health screenings.

The Creatinine test requires only some preparations which have been outlined below:

Prerequisites

The S. Creatinine test does not require fasting. If part of a broader metabolic panel, you might need to fast for about 12 hours before the test. Additionally, it may be recommended to avoid cooked meat the night before the test, as it can temporarily raise creatinine levels.

Best Time to Get Tested

The S. Creatinine test can be taken at any time of the day if fasting is not necessary.

When Is a Creatinine Test Recommended?

A Creatinine Blood test may be performed for routine assessment of kidney function. The test can also help screen individuals showing symptoms of kidney damage. The test is also suitable for high-risk individuals like those with high blood pressure, heart disease, elderly age, diabetes, a family history of kidney disease, obesity, and a smoking history.

Cautions Before Taking Creatinine Test

Creatinine levels may get altered due to some medicines and supplements. H2 blockers like ranitidine, famotidine, cimetidine, certain antibiotics like trimethoprim, cefoxitin, and so on can affect kidney function as well as creatinine levels.

A Serum Creatinine test is a crucial diagnostic measure for evaluating kidney function. Here’s when it might be used:

Routine Kidney Health Monitoring

A Creatinine test is typically included in the routine health screenings to assess how well your kidneys are working.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Undergoing a creatinine test is suitable for individuals having symptoms of kidney disease such as dry skin, puffiness in the eyes, swelling in the hands or feet, fatigue, change in urine’s appearance (cloudy or foamy urine and blood in urine), muscle cramps, weight loss, reduced appetite, vomiting, nausea, sleep disturbances, and trouble in concentrating.

Monitoring Post-Kidney Transplant

For those with a kidney transplant, regular Creatinine tests are vital for monitoring the health of the transplanted kidney, ensuring early detection of any rejection or issues.

Assessing High-Risk Individuals

Even in the absence of symptoms, individuals with high-risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, a family history of kidney disease, heart disease, being over 50, smoking, or obesity, should have regular Creatinine tests to monitor for potential kidney disease, as early stages often lack noticeable symptoms.

Follow-up on Previous Abnormal Kidney Test Results

If you have had abnormal results in previous kidney tests or routine assessments, regular Creatinine testing is necessary to track kidney health and evaluate the success of any treatments or lifestyle changes.

Monitor Individuals When Medications Affect Kidney Function

Regular Creatinine tests are helpful when individuals are taking certain medications that affect kidney function such as pain-relief medicines, and drugs used to treat diabetes and high cholesterol.

The table given below will help you understand your Serum Creatinine test results: