High creatinine to low back to high

Hi @primus37 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. We’re a community of non-medical members who share the experiences and insights we’ve picked up along the way to help each other with finding answers and to offer encouragement.

It’s always frightening when we face an unknown medical situation. In your case you’re concerned with the ongoing fluctuation in creatinine levels. I’ve been dealing with this the past 2 years as well, though mine are chemically induced with a medication I’m currently taking. But you’ve been having these elevated readings for 10 years with no serious issues or complications.
Creatinine levels can be affected by myriad reasons such as low fluid intake, diabetes, a blockage in the urinary tract, high blood pressure, medications, etc..
What did your kidney specialist say regarding your other test results such as GFR, BUN and albumin levels in your blood? They all play an integral part in telling the entire story of how well your kidneys are functioning overall. Also a 24 urine output test is important.

Do you drink plenty of fluids daily? Especially water. My doctors have me drinking 64+oz of water per day. Limiting protein is also recommended for not taxing an impaired kidney. Maintaining exercise and a healthy diet can be helpful. And if there is kidney damage, there are treatment options and lifestyle changes that can make a difference.

I’m sure you’ve been researching online for answers and this has done little to alleviate your fears. I’ve been in your shoes and found that it is in my best interest to wait until I actually have a diagnosis and a plan to move forward. Until then, speculation is my worst enemy. I think it might be yours too! When is your next doctor’s appointment?

I have an ultrasound next week and then a 24 hr urine test I need to do about two weeks before my next appointment which is in July.

@primus37 The body is a miracle machine, and so many organ/systems play alongside each other. As @loribmt mentioned, different factors and reading need to be taken as a whole, to get the big picture. Are there any other health issues you are experiencing that might contribute to high creatinine levels? Is this dr a nephrologist, or have you considered being seen by a one? They often have a greater understanding of your concerns.

And yes, not knowing can certainly play on your mind. You owe it to yourself to get plenty of exercise, sunshine, laughter, and distraction. While researching can be a good thing, too much, or not being able to piece everything together on your own, can be disheartening. Do you have a support team of family and friends to turn to?
Ginger

I really only have my wife. I go to church and I pray and try to trust God but I’m just a man and sometimes things get so overwhelming that I don’t trust enough when I should. I’ve been so depressed lately that I don’t leave the house. I’m in a bad way right now. By the way my dr is a nephrologist. His name is Dr Kaufhold.

@primus37 Perhaps you can reach out to your faith community and ask for support. You may find there are people there to offer you similar experiences and share how they deal with it all. Also, remember that you have us here to lean on, like you have already.

Exercise, even a short walk, or sitting on the porch, will help give you a lift in your mind. I know, been-there-done-that-got-the-t-shirt.
Ginger

I’ve been walking every evening with my wife and eating the best I can. I’m doing my best I just hope and pray it’s good enough.