The creatinine test is a blood test that measures the amount of creatinine in your blood. It's primarily used to assess how well your kidneys are functioning. Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscle that is filtered out of the blood by your kidneys. If your kidneys aren't working properly, creatinine can build up in your blood, leading to a higher creatinine level.
Here are some additional reasons why a creatinine test might be ordered:
- To monitor kidney function: Doctors may order a creatinine test to monitor kidney function in people with existing kidney disease or other conditions that could affect kidney health, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
- To diagnose kidney disease: If a doctor suspects kidney disease, a creatinine test is often part of the diagnostic workup.
- To determine the severity of kidney disease: The level of creatinine in your blood can indicate the severity of kidney damage.
- To monitor the effectiveness of treatment: Creatinine levels can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for kidney disease or other conditions that affect kidney function.
- To assess muscle mass: Creatinine levels can also be used to estimate muscle mass, as creatinine production is related to muscle breakdown.
It's important to note that a single high creatinine level doesn't necessarily mean you have kidney disease. Other factors can contribute to a higher creatinine level, such as dehydration or recent strenuous exercise. However, consistently elevated creatinine levels can be a sign of a problem with your kidneys, and your doctor will likely order additional tests to evaluate your kidney function further.
