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What Causes Elevated Creatinine Levels?
Question: I need some recommendations for managing high creatinine level of 1.6, highest ever and a HgbA1c of 6.5, highest ever with no history of diabetes or kidney failure. I weigh 172 which is 10lbs above my normal weight, in part attributable to 2yrs of Verapamil for chronic BP management. Otherwise, the weight gain is not associated with overeating. I eat a very balanced diet, with consistently small portions. I exercise regularly, although my work is sedentary. I'm very concerned because I know these results are associated with CKD and Diabetes. No family hx of either. Although I had repeat UTIs a few years back, even managed with prophylactic antibiotics for a few years. (another story) None of this is recent years. No GI problems. I have asthma; very well managed. Now on Losartan for BP, well managed. I'm a young, 63 year old black, married female. I'm on moderate dose of Bupropion for chemical depression, no life issues. lol And Estradiol. Point me in the right direction please. I can't do DB mellitus and CKF. Thanks!!!
Brief Answer:
About high creatinine;
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for asking!
I have gone carefully through your query and understood your concern.
As you may know the most common cause of renal insufficiency at you age is Diabetes, but it does not seem to be in your case.
It needs at least 5 years presence of abnormal blood glucose to cause chronic complications.
As you insist that the glycemia and HbA1c levels has been in continous monitoring, I would exclude a diabetic renal insufficiency.
The medications you described do not cause impaired renal function.
A urine sample and an abdominal ultrasound would be of help to try to find a probable cause.
Glomerulonephritis would be the next to explore.
Kind regards,
Dr.Mirjeta
About high creatinine;
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for asking!
I have gone carefully through your query and understood your concern.
As you may know the most common cause of renal insufficiency at you age is Diabetes, but it does not seem to be in your case.
It needs at least 5 years presence of abnormal blood glucose to cause chronic complications.
As you insist that the glycemia and HbA1c levels has been in continous monitoring, I would exclude a diabetic renal insufficiency.
The medications you described do not cause impaired renal function.
A urine sample and an abdominal ultrasound would be of help to try to find a probable cause.
Glomerulonephritis would be the next to explore.
Kind regards,
Dr.Mirjeta
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Remy Koshy
Your assessment is on track and very helpful. I've experienced glomerulonephritis in the past; more than 20 yrs ago. I learned how to avoid chronic urinary tract infections and I don't struggle with that constant pattern any more. I'm relieved to know that I'm not "sentenced" to DM without recourse. I have began increasing my daily water intake substantially, i.e., at least 36 oz. a day, with other non-sugary liquids, i.e., green tea w/only 1 teaspoon of honey, vs. the generous pour I used to do. Also, limiting myself to 24 oz. of gingerale per week, vs. nearly 1 12 oz. can a day. I drink peppermint or some herbal tea at night and I can have a "dot" of sugar, just a dot. I shopped for sugar substitutes, like Equal, Splenda, etc., but I discovered they are not sugar free. No Steva for me. I don't get it. lol So, I'm being careful.
What can I do to reduce my creatinine and blood sugar levels? What other than the obvious sugar consumption will help me to improve those lab results? I don't eat red meat. Hx of diverticulitis; one episode 10 years ago. No more! I got a handle on my diet. It's so anti-diverticulitis! lol No worries there. But I want to avoid the risk of DM. I expect my PCP to recommend something related to early DM. I've seen some commercials related to those new products. What can I do to help myself correct the problem and get things, lab, weight, etc. back on track>
Thanks!
XXXX
What can I do to reduce my creatinine and blood sugar levels? What other than the obvious sugar consumption will help me to improve those lab results? I don't eat red meat. Hx of diverticulitis; one episode 10 years ago. No more! I got a handle on my diet. It's so anti-diverticulitis! lol No worries there. But I want to avoid the risk of DM. I expect my PCP to recommend something related to early DM. I've seen some commercials related to those new products. What can I do to help myself correct the problem and get things, lab, weight, etc. back on track>
Thanks!
XXXX
Brief Answer:
Diabetes treatment:
Detailed Answer:
Welcome back XXXXXXX
Regarding to high HbA1c treatment, i think you are doing the utmost with diet and physical activity. Our aim of HbA1c is under 6.5 %, so i would recommend to keep monitoring it without starting treatment.
Try to avoid the honey and the dots of sugar, meanwhile.
The creatinine level should be explored further and decide rather it needs treatment or rather there are electrolyte disturbances caused by it (usually; iron, calcium and phosphate disturbances are common) and according to them a proper diet will be suggested.
Best wishes,
Dr.Mirjeta
Diabetes treatment:
Detailed Answer:
Welcome back XXXXXXX
Regarding to high HbA1c treatment, i think you are doing the utmost with diet and physical activity. Our aim of HbA1c is under 6.5 %, so i would recommend to keep monitoring it without starting treatment.
Try to avoid the honey and the dots of sugar, meanwhile.
The creatinine level should be explored further and decide rather it needs treatment or rather there are electrolyte disturbances caused by it (usually; iron, calcium and phosphate disturbances are common) and according to them a proper diet will be suggested.
Best wishes,
Dr.Mirjeta
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Kampana
Yes! Forgive my delay please. I greatly appreciated your insight. Moments ago, really, I pondered reaching back out to you. I visited my Dr. and my goal is to improve my creatinine level and my blood sugar. So, I'm researching that and changing my diet. I'm too close for carelessness. I need to drink more water too. Please share any other recommendations that you have for food to include or avoid.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Brief Answer:
High creatinine recommended diet:
Detailed Answer:
Welcome back,
As i suggested above the diet should be personalised regarding to your BUN, creatinine and electrolyte level. Anyway, i am trying to give some general information regarding the diet for high creatinine level;
The diet for people with a high creatinine is low in protein(Because creatine is found mainly in such high protein foods. Creatine can be broken into creatinine) sodium, potassium and phosphorus (potassium and phosphorus should be checked before).
1)Limit the amount of protein in your diet. Eating more protein than your body needs increases the amount of waste your kidneys need to remove, making them work harder.
Limiting protein intake to 0.4 gram per pound, or approx. 60 grams , is recommended to preserve kidney function. Most of your protein should come from high-biological value sources, such as lean meat, poultry, eggs and milk.
2) Eating less sodium also helps you better manage blood pressure, which may also preserve kidney function.
To reduce sodium intake, trade in your processed foods, such as deli meats, chips and fast food, for more fresh foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and seafood prepared without salt, pasta, rice, and milk.
3)Water:It is worth mentioning that patient with high creatinine and BUN should take much water if only patient do not have obvious edema, because water is good for patient’s kidney health.
Hope the information will help.
Kind regards,
Dr.Mirjeta
High creatinine recommended diet:
Detailed Answer:
Welcome back,
As i suggested above the diet should be personalised regarding to your BUN, creatinine and electrolyte level. Anyway, i am trying to give some general information regarding the diet for high creatinine level;
The diet for people with a high creatinine is low in protein(Because creatine is found mainly in such high protein foods. Creatine can be broken into creatinine) sodium, potassium and phosphorus (potassium and phosphorus should be checked before).
1)Limit the amount of protein in your diet. Eating more protein than your body needs increases the amount of waste your kidneys need to remove, making them work harder.
Limiting protein intake to 0.4 gram per pound, or approx. 60 grams , is recommended to preserve kidney function. Most of your protein should come from high-biological value sources, such as lean meat, poultry, eggs and milk.
2) Eating less sodium also helps you better manage blood pressure, which may also preserve kidney function.
To reduce sodium intake, trade in your processed foods, such as deli meats, chips and fast food, for more fresh foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and seafood prepared without salt, pasta, rice, and milk.
3)Water:It is worth mentioning that patient with high creatinine and BUN should take much water if only patient do not have obvious edema, because water is good for patient’s kidney health.
Hope the information will help.
Kind regards,
Dr.Mirjeta
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems and comprehensive renal care, talk to a Nephrologist. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
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