Have You Checked Your Creatinine Level?

Creatinine blood test helps to measure a chemical waste molecule produced from muscle metabolism. It is a reliable and clear indicant of kidney health and function. Find out more with Dr. Pratibha Karande.

What is creatinine test?

It is a crucial test conducted to evaluate the functioning of our kidneys.

What is creatinine?

It is a waste material developed in our body during the process of muscle metabolism. During this process where the muscles are being metabolized, a product known as creatinine is generated. Generally, as this is a waste material, it needs to be thrown out of the body. Regularly, kidneys filter this waste material and discard it in the form of urine. However, if somebody’s kidneys are not functioning properly or he/she is suffering from some disease related to kidneys then it is very difficult for kidneys to throw out the waste material from the body.

This leads or results into the rise of creatinine levels in the blood. Since the creatinine levels in the blood are high, it is evident that the functioning of kidneys is not proper.

Who should undergo this test?

Having a creatinine test done will help patients to keep their kidneys healthy. A regular creatinine level check should be done by:

• Patients suffering from diabetes mellitus (They should regularly undergo the test because over the period of time – diabetes mellitus will lead to the weakening of the functioning of kidneys)
• Patients already suffering from kidney problems
• Patients on regular medication
• Patients on medication and undergoing tests for some or the other chronic illnesses (such tests and medication have some deteriorating effect on kidneys)