I have high creatinine levels. Are my kidneys at risk?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been careful with salt, drinking more water, and avoiding painkillers, but still the numbers creep. I do not feel any difference, but I am scared about it turning into dialysis someday. I just saw my recent laboratory reports, and my creatinine levels are high again. My concerns are:

Does that mean my kidneys are getting worse?
What can I actually do to slow this?
Also, do protein shakes make it worse?

My son keeps telling me to eat more protein, but I am not sure if it is safe.

Please suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

A rising creatinine level could show that there is a change in the functioning of the kidneys, although a single value will not reflect the whole picture. That is why trends and estimated GFR are analyzed.

Sometimes creatinine goes up temporarily due to:

Dehydration.
Recent infection.
New medications.
High blood pressure.
Laboratory variation.

If you feel otherwise normal, that is somewhat reassuring. Kidney disease often progresses silently, which is why regular monitoring is important. To slow progression, focus on the main pillars:

Keep blood pressure tightly controlled (target usually below 130/80 mmHg).
Control blood sugar if diabetic.
Low salt diet.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) painkillers.
Do not smoke.

Consumption of proteins becomes a significant factor. Very high protein consumption or high protein shakes becomes a burden for the kidneys. In case of chronic kidney disease, it is recommended that the patient consume a moderate amount of protein, and no high-protein bodybuilder diet should be followed without the permission of the nephrologist.

Consuming water is good, but drinking too much of it will not make the kidneys work better; adequate hydration is enough. The necessity of dialysis is relevant at advanced stages (eGFR around 10 to15). Many patients live for years with the disease, being well-controlled. The main things you should do are:

Repeat the test to confirm the trend.
Check urine for protein.
Review blood pressure log.
Review medications.

Kidney disease progression can often be slowed significantly with strict control and regular follow-up. You are already doing the right things; now we should just refine and monitor carefully.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.