CREATININE

CREATININE

Creatinine is a chemical compound left over from energy producing processes in your muscles. Healthy kidneys filter creatinine out of the blood. Creatinine exits your body as a waste product in urine.

A measurement of creatinine in your blood or urine provides clues to help your doctor determine how well the kidneys are working

A creatinine test is used to see if your kidneys are working normally. It's often ordered along with another kidney test called blood urea nitrogen (BUN) or as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP). A CMP is a group of tests that provide information about different organs and systems in the body. A CMP is frequently included in a routine checkup.

You may need this test if you have symptoms of kidney disease. These include fatigue, puffiness around the eyes, swelling in your feet and/or ankles, decreased appetite, frequent and painful urination, and foamy or bloody urine.

You may also need this test if you have certain risk factors for kidney disease. You may be at higher risk for kidney disease if you have Type 1/2 diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease.