What does a high level of creatinine indicate?

A high level of creatinine is primarily indicative of kidney dysfunction. Creatinine is a waste product that is generated from muscle metabolism and is usually excreted from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, they are unable to filter creatinine effectively, leading to an accumulation in the blood. Therefore, elevated creatinine levels are typically assessed as markers of renal health, signaling that the kidneys may not be filtering waste as they should.

While elevated creatinine can sometimes be influenced by factors like dehydration or certain medical conditions that affect kidney function, its primary implication is usually associated with issues related to the kidneys themselves. This is why a high creatinine level is a critical parameter that healthcare providers monitor when evaluating renal health.