If Your Creatinine Is High: 5 Steps That May Help

A high creatinine level is not a disease itself. It is a blood test result that may indicate your kidneys are not filtering waste as well as expected. However, creatinine can also be temporarily elevated due to dehydration, certain medications, intense exercise, or a high intake of cooked meat before the test.

The right approach depends on why your creatinine is elevated.

1. Stay Hydrated (Unless You’ve Been Told to Restrict Fluids)

Dehydration can temporarily increase creatinine levels.

Aim to drink enough fluids to stay hydrated, unless your healthcare professional has advised you to limit fluids because of kidney failure, heart failure, or another condition.

2. Review Your Medications

Some medicines can affect kidney function or raise creatinine, including:

Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs
Certain antibiotics
Some acid-reducing medicines
Certain imaging contrast dyes

Do not stop prescribed medications on your own. If your creatinine is high, ask your healthcare professional or pharmacist to review all your prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements.

3. Manage Underlying Conditions

The most common causes of chronic kidney disease are:

High blood pressure
Diabetes

Keeping blood pressure and blood sugar within your target range can help protect kidney function.

4. Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet if Recommended

Depending on the cause and severity of kidney disease, your healthcare professional may recommend:

Reducing excess salt
Choosing a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables (unless you need to limit potassium)
Eating moderate amounts of protein rather than excessive amounts
Avoiding highly processed foods

Dietary advice should be tailored to your stage of kidney disease, if present.