What to do after a high creatinine result

Getting a result marked high can make it hard to think clearly. This page gives you a calm, practical plan. It will not tell you what your result means, because that needs a clinician. It will help you get the most from that conversation and find follow-up in Mombasa.

Step 1: Check for urgent warning signs

Most people with a high creatinine feel well and do not need emergency care. But some symptoms mean you should not wait for a routine appointment.

If none of these apply, you have time to plan your next step.

Step 2: Read your report carefully

Look for these details on the report and write them down:

• your creatinine result and the unit (usually µmol/L, sometimes mg/dL);
• the reference range printed by the lab, which varies by lab, age, sex and muscle mass;
• the eGFR, if the lab has calculated it;
• other results on the same panel, such as urea, sodium and potassium;
• the date the sample was taken;
• anything unusual about that day: were you unwell, dehydrated, training hard, or had you eaten a large meat meal?

If the words are unfamiliar, our kidney test glossary explains them. Do not try to diagnose yourself from the numbers. Use them to prepare questions.

Step 3: Find your earlier results

An older result is one of the most useful things you can bring. It shows whether the level is new, rising or stable. Look through old hospital files, lab reports, insurance records or photos on your phone. Results from any lab or hospital, in Mombasa or elsewhere, can help.

Step 4: Book an appointment

Arrange to see a doctor or clinical officer to discuss the result, ideally within the next few weeks, or sooner if the lab or your doctor has advised it. A good starting point is:

• the doctor who requested the test;
• your usual general practitioner or hospital outpatient clinic;
• a physician (internal medicine doctor), especially if you have diabetes or high blood pressure;
• your diabetes, hypertension or HIV clinic, if you attend one.

You do not usually need to go straight to a kidney specialist. Your doctor will refer you if it is needed. See when to see a nephrologist.

Step 5: Prepare for the appointment

Bring:

• the new report and any older results;
• a list of all your medicines, including painkillers you buy at a chemist, herbal and traditional remedies, and supplements such as creatine or protein powders;
• your recent blood pressure and blood sugar readings, if you have them;
• a short note of any symptoms, such as swelling, foamy urine, tiredness or changes in urination, and when they started;
• any family history of kidney disease, diabetes or high blood pressure.

See what happens at a kidney consultation for more on what to expect.

Step 6: Expect a repeat test and possibly others

A repeat creatinine is very common. Your clinician will decide when. To make it comparable, they may ask you to:

• be well hydrated, without drinking unusually large amounts;
• avoid very hard exercise the day before;
• avoid a large meat meal in the hours before the test;
• use the same lab if possible, since methods differ slightly.

Other tests often include a urine ACR, a urinalysis, blood sugar, and sometimes a kidney ultrasound. Following KDIGO 2024, kidney health is judged on eGFR and urine albumin together, over time. Chronic kidney disease is only diagnosed when changes last more than 3 months.

Step 7: Ask clear questions

• What is my eGFR, and what does it mean for me?
• What do you think could explain this result?
• Could any of my medicines or supplements be involved?
• Do I need a urine ACR or any other test?
• When should I repeat the test, and how should I prepare?
• Is there anything I should avoid in the meantime?
• Do I need to see a specialist?

Our full list of questions to ask your doctor may help.

Things to avoid while you wait

• Do not stop prescribed medicines on your own, even if you read that they can affect creatinine.
• Ask before taking anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as ibuprofen or diclofenac. A pharmacist or doctor can advise on alternatives.
• Be careful with "kidney cleanse" products and herbal remedies of unknown content. Some can harm the kidneys.
• Do not force down large volumes of water. Drink normally unless a clinician gives you other advice. Some people with kidney or heart conditions need to limit fluids.

Step 8: Find follow-up care in Mombasa

Kidney testing and follow-up are available across Mombasa, on Mombasa Island and in areas such as Nyali, Bamburi, Likoni and Changamwe. If you need a repeat test, see kidney testing in Mombasa. If your doctor has recommended a kidney specialist, see nephrologists in Mombasa. If you are not sure what kind of care you need, our enquiry form asks only a few simple questions and can help you identify an appropriate verified provider.

This page explains what a test or condition involves. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace advice from a doctor who knows your history. Your results should be interpreted together with your symptoms, other tests and a clinical assessment. Medical disclaimer.