Is an ER visit necessary for high creatinine and decreased urine output?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had a blood workup done yesterday in preparation for a chemotherapy port removal. Mo to a doctor's office then? I am on a limited income so I would rather avoid the expense of the ER, if it is not necessary.y creatinine level was 1.9 mg/dL at that time, and it has been within normal range before that. I had significantly decreased urination the day before but had a lot of sweating the preceding day. I had to avoid food and water for eight hours before my port removal procedure. My urine output and fluid intake are back to normal since yesterday afternoon. I do have uncontrolled diabetes, history of high blood pressure and some edema in my ankles. I currently take Avapro, Imdur, Plavix, Metformin and Insulin for the heart problem and diabetes. A nurse called late today and suggested me to visit ER, because of the creatinine level and the decreased urine output for that one day. Is a trip to the ER necessary? Or can I wait for two days and g

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The history of diabetes, hypertension and chemotherapy all have contributed to the raised creatinine level. If you have urine output less than 16 ounces persistently, then you may need help early. If you develop breathlessness, severe cough, fever or flank pain, then you should visit an ER. Avoid eating dry fruits, banana, fruit juices, etc., before being evaluated for electrolytes. Restrict fluid intake to less than 50 ounces until you get re-evaluated. Continue your diabetes and hypertension medication. There is a need for some adjustment to Metformin due to raised creatinine, so consult your doctor. If you watch yourself and have no breathlessness, you can wait and see a nephrologist. If any problem arises, then visit an ER. Also, creatinine and potassium levels need to be repeated.