Symptoms of Elevated Creatinine Levels in the Blood
Increasing levels of creatinine, also spelled as creatine (in English: Creatinine), are often indicative of underlying health issues related to kidney function. The symptoms experienced by an affected individual may vary based on the underlying cause of the elevation. Below, we outline various disorders and health problems that may be associated with high creatinine levels, along with their related symptoms:
Drug-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Drug-induced nephrotoxicity is defined as kidney damage resulting from the side effects of certain medications, which can adversely affect kidney functions. Examples of medications that may cause nephrotoxicity include diuretics, some antibiotics, and certain cardiovascular drugs. Symptoms that may manifest in individuals suffering from this condition include:
- Shortness of breath.
- Nausea.
- Extreme fatigue or exhaustion.
- Confusion.
- Irregular heartbeat.
- Chest pain.
- Fluid retention, particularly in the lower body.
- Decreased urine output.
Kidney Infection
Pyelonephritis, commonly referred to as a kidney infection, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that typically starts in the lower parts of the urinary system, such as the bladder, and can spread to the upper parts, including the kidneys. This condition can affect one or both kidneys and is most commonly caused by viruses or bacteria. Symptoms of this type of infection can vary based on the patient’s age and may include:
- Frequent urination.
- Painful urination.
- Unpleasant odor in urine.
- Dark yellow urine.
- Presence of blood in urine.
- Cloudy urine.
- Fever and chills.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Back pain or pain on either side of the abdomen, potentially radiating to the groin area.
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the glomeruli, which are the filtering units of the kidneys responsible for removing waste, electrolytes, and excess fluids from the blood. This condition may develop over time in chronic cases or emerge suddenly in acute situations. Glomerulonephritis may be identified through routine urine tests or as symptoms become apparent. Common symptoms associated with this condition include:
- Proteinuria, characterized by foamy urine due to elevated protein levels.
- Hematuria, indicating the presence of red blood cells in urine, resulting in a pinkish or dark color.
- Fluid retention or edema, which manifests as swelling in the abdomen, legs, arms, or face.
- Hypertension.
Diabetes
Diabetes can lead to numerous health complications, including kidney diseases resulting from significantly elevated blood glucose levels. The symptoms of diabetes can vary based on its type and the degree of blood sugar increase. In cases of prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes, patients may not exhibit clear symptoms, while Type 1 diabetes usually presents sudden and severe symptoms. Common symptoms shared by both types include:
- Intense thirst and hunger.
- Frequent urination.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Irritability.
- Continuous fatigue.
- Blurred vision.
- Presence of ketones in urine.
- Delayed healing of cuts and sores.
- Recurrent infections, including skin, gum, and vaginal infections.
Hypertension
High blood pressure has a direct impact on kidney health, potentially damaging blood vessels surrounding the kidneys and impairing their function, ultimately contributing to elevated creatinine levels. Increased pressure on arterial walls can lead to significant damage, and hypertension often presents with no noticeable symptoms, typically discovered during routine examinations.
Heart Diseases
Certain heart conditions, such as congestive heart failure and atherosclerosis, can also affect kidney functions. Symptoms associated with heart diseases vary based on the individual’s health status and the type of disorder, and may include:
- Chest pain or angina.
- Arrhythmias.
- Shortness of breath.
- Swelling in the legs or feet.
- Nausea.
- Weakness and fatigue.
Urinary Tract Obstruction
Obstruction of the urinary tract can lead to hydronephrosis, characterized by fluid buildup in the kidneys due to an inability to drain urine. Causes of obstruction may include tumors, kidney stones, or prostate enlargement. Changes in urinary habits may indicate underlying obstruction. Symptoms of urinary tract blockage may include:
- Blood in the urine.
- Difficulty urinating.
- Weak urine flow.
- Urgent need to urinate, especially at night (nocturia).
- Feeling an incomplete bladder void.
- Reduced urine output, particularly if one kidney is obstructed; but obstruction of both kidneys typically has a more significant effect on urine elimination.
Kidney Failure
Kidney failure is characterized by the loss of the kidneys’ ability to effectively cleanse the blood of waste products. This condition may not always come with symptoms, but when they occur, they can include:
- Decreased urine output.
- Persistent nausea.
- Unexplained shortness of breath.
- Seizures.
- Fainting.
- Confusion.
- Pain or pressure in the chest area.
- Excessive drowsiness or fatigue.
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet due to fluid retention from the kidneys’ inability to eliminate excess fluid.
- Itching.
- Muscle cramps.
When to See a Doctor
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional when observing any new or unexplained symptoms, to prevent potential health complications by taking appropriate medical actions and receiving the necessary treatment, particularly if symptoms suggest heart, kidney, or diabetes-related issues.
Watch the Video on How to Lower Creatinine Levels
See how to lower creatinine levels.