Symptoms When Creatinine Levels Reach 12 mg/dL

When creatinine levels reach 12, the body may exhibit symptoms such as severe fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and decreased urine output. Additionally, patients may experience swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes due to fluid retention. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as this level of creatinine indicates significant kidney dysfunction?

Creatinine is an important indicator for assessing kidney function.
If a blood test shows a creatinine level of 12 mg/dL (normal range is 0.7 to 1.2 mg/dL), should the body exhibit corresponding symptoms? Thank you.

A Jun, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/09

Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine

First, confirm whether the test values are accurate, and then distinguish between acute and chronic conditions.
If it is chronic, it typically falls under stage 5 chronic kidney disease, which is often associated with symptoms of uremia (fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, edema, and decreased urine output).
Of course, if the patient is younger, they may have a higher tolerance and may not exhibit the aforementioned symptoms.
It is recommended that if a routine blood test shows a serum creatinine level of 12 mg/dL, regardless of symptoms, the patient should seek medical attention to clarify the condition and receive treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry; the Nephrology Department at Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2021/11/09

More Info

When creatinine levels reach 12 mg/dL, it indicates a severe impairment of kidney function, often classified as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or acute kidney injury (AKI), depending on the clinical context. Creatinine is a waste product produced from muscle metabolism and is normally filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. Elevated levels suggest that the kidneys are not functioning properly, leading to a buildup of waste products in the body.

At such high levels of creatinine, patients may experience a variety of symptoms due to the accumulation of toxins and the body's inability to maintain homeostasis. Common symptoms associated with severely elevated creatinine levels include:
1. Fatigue and Weakness: Patients often report feeling extremely tired and weak due to the body's inability to filter waste effectively and the resultant buildup of toxins.

2. Nausea and Vomiting: The accumulation of urea and other nitrogenous waste products can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea and vomiting.

3. Swelling (Edema): Fluid retention is common, particularly in the legs, ankles, and around the eyes, due to the kidneys' inability to excrete excess fluid.

4. Shortness of Breath: Fluid may accumulate in the lungs (pulmonary edema), leading to difficulty breathing and a feeling of breathlessness.

5. Changes in Urination: Patients may notice a decrease in urine output or changes in urine color. In some cases, there may be no urine output at all (anuria).

6. Confusion or Altered Mental Status: The buildup of toxins can affect brain function, leading to confusion, difficulty concentrating, or even coma in severe cases.

7. High Blood Pressure: Kidney dysfunction can lead to hypertension, which may further complicate the patient's condition.

8. Itching (Pruritus): Accumulation of waste products can lead to skin irritation and itching.

9. Chest Pain: This can occur due to fluid overload or other complications related to kidney failure.

10. Bone Pain or Fractures: Chronic kidney disease can lead to mineral and bone disorders, resulting in bone pain or an increased risk of fractures.

It is crucial for individuals with such elevated creatinine levels to seek immediate medical attention. Management may involve hospitalization, where healthcare providers can monitor kidney function, manage symptoms, and initiate treatment options such as dialysis if necessary. Dialysis is a procedure that artificially removes waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys can no longer perform this function.

In summary, a creatinine level of 12 mg/dL is a critical situation that typically presents with significant symptoms affecting multiple body systems. Prompt medical evaluation and intervention are essential to address the underlying causes and manage the complications associated with severe kidney dysfunction. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is vital to contact a healthcare professional immediately for assessment and treatment.

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