Creatinine Test
What is It?
A creatinine test measures the amount of creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is a waste product that comes from your muscles, and your kidneys filter it out of your blood. This test helps your doctor see how well your kidneys are working.
Why is the Creatinine Test Important?
It shows how efficiently your kidneys are clearing waste from your blood.
If your creatinine levels are too high, it could mean your kidneys aren’t working properly.
The test helps diagnose kidney disease or monitor an existing kidney condition.
How is the Test Done?
1. A small sample of blood is taken from a vein in your arm.
2. The blood is sent to a lab, where the amount of creatinine is measured.
3. The doctor reviews the results to assess your kidney health.
What Do the Results Mean?
Normal levels vary depending on age, gender, and muscle mass.
High creatinine levels could indicate that your kidneys aren’t working as well as they should.
Low levels are rare but can sometimes happen in people with low muscle mass.
What Should You Do Before the Test?
No special preparation is needed.
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
What Happens After the Test?
Your doctor will explain your creatinine levels:
If they’re high, your doctor may suggest more tests or treatments to check your kidney function.
If they’re normal, it means your kidneys are doing a good job filtering waste.
In summary, the creatinine test is a quick and easy way to check how well your kidneys are
working and ensure they’re filtering waste out of your body properly.