Can Dehydration Cause High Creatinine Levels?
November 28, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, dehydration can indeed cause an increase in serum creatinine levels. Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles from the breakdown of a compound called creatine phosphate. It’s filtered by the kidneys and excreted through urine. Elevated creatinine levels in the blood can be an indicator of kidney function.
When the body is dehydrated, there’s a decrease in blood flow to the kidneys. As a result, the kidneys may have reduced filtration capacity, leading to a decrease in the excretion of waste products like creatinine. Consequently, the concentration of creatinine in the blood may rise, indicating higher serum creatinine levels.
However, it’s important to note that dehydration causing a temporary increase in creatinine levels doesn’t necessarily signify kidney damage or dysfunction. Once the body is adequately hydrated, the kidneys typically resume normal function, and creatinine levels often return to their baseline.
Persistent or chronic elevation of serum creatinine levels could indicate underlying kidney problems or other health issues. Therefore, if someone consistently has high creatinine levels or suspects dehydration might be affecting their kidney function, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation and advice from a healthcare professional. They can assess the situation, determine the underlying cause of elevated creatinine, and recommend appropriate measures or treatment if necessary.