Elevated Creatinine Levels: Should You Worry?

Elevated creatinine levels?

Hello Doctor, I am 30 years old.
In recent years, my health check-ups have shown elevated creatinine levels twice, around 1.2 or 1.3.
My glomerular filtration rate (GFR) has been in the 60s or 70s, but there is no protein or blood in my urine.
I do not have issues with hypertension, diabetes, or obesity.
I have returned to the hospital for follow-up checks, and the values have remained similar.
An ultrasound also showed no abnormalities.
Every time I ask the doctor if I have kidney disease, they say I do not.
However, I am concerned about why my creatinine levels are consistently high.
I am not taking any medications and have no family history of kidney disease.
I wonder if this means my kidneys are more prone to dialysis than average.
Additionally, I have been working out this year and taking whey protein powder.
Could this worsen my kidney function, and is it still appropriate for me to consume? Thank you, Doctor!

Xiao Wen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/23

Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine

Regarding your first question, a creatinine level of 1.2 or 1.3 roughly corresponds to a current estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of about 75 or 68, which is slightly low for your age.
However, you mentioned that you do not have proteinuria or hematuria, nor do you have issues with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or obesity (all of which are risk factors for renal function deterioration, along with smoking).
It is advisable for you to consult a nephrologist for regular follow-up, and to maintain exercise and good lifestyle habits.
Sometimes, multiple data points are needed to observe trends.
As for whey protein, it should not adversely affect kidney function when consumed in moderation in the absence of proteinuria.
Thank you for your inquiry; the Nephrology Department at Changhua Hospital is concerned about your health.

Reply Date: 2019/10/23

More Info

Elevated creatinine levels can indeed be concerning, but understanding the context is crucial. Creatinine is a waste product generated from muscle metabolism and is typically filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. When creatinine levels rise, it can indicate that the kidneys are not functioning optimally. However, it's important to consider several factors before jumping to conclusions about kidney health.

In your case, a creatinine level of 1.2 to 1.3 mg/dL is slightly above the normal range for most laboratories, which is generally around 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL. However, the interpretation of these values can vary based on several factors, including muscle mass, hydration status, and overall health. For instance, individuals with higher muscle mass may naturally have higher creatinine levels. Additionally, if you are engaging in regular exercise, particularly strength training, this could also contribute to elevated creatinine levels due to increased muscle breakdown.

Your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) values, which are in the 60s to 70s, suggest that your kidney function is still within a reasonable range, although it is on the lower end of normal. A GFR of 60 or above is generally considered acceptable, but it is essential to monitor it over time, especially if you have had consistent elevations in creatinine.

The absence of protein in your urine and the lack of hematuria (blood in urine) are positive signs, as these can indicate kidney damage or disease. The fact that your doctors have reassured you that you do not have kidney disease based on your test results is also encouraging. It is not uncommon for individuals to have mildly elevated creatinine levels without having significant kidney issues, especially if there are no other symptoms or risk factors present.

Regarding your concerns about kidney health and the use of whey protein, it is generally safe for healthy individuals to consume whey protein as part of a balanced diet. However, excessive protein intake can put additional strain on the kidneys, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. Since you mentioned that you do not have a history of kidney disease and your doctors have not classified you as having kidney issues, moderate consumption of whey protein should not pose a significant risk. It is always wise to consult with your healthcare provider about your specific dietary needs, especially if you are concerned about your kidney function.

In summary, while elevated creatinine levels can be a sign of kidney issues, your overall health indicators, including GFR and the absence of protein in your urine, suggest that you are not currently experiencing kidney disease. Regular monitoring of your kidney function, maintaining a balanced diet, and staying hydrated are essential steps in managing your health. If you have any further concerns or if your creatinine levels continue to rise, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

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