20 Sep What is a Creatinine Blood Test, and Can You Get it at Home?

There are few organs in our body more important than the kidneys. Serving as the cleanser, it is responsible for cleansing the blood of toxins and transforming the waste into urine. Problems can arise when our kidneys cease to function properly. In cases like these, a creatinine blood test is needed to determine if your kidneys are in a state of crisis.

Symptoms of poor kidney function

Effects of compromised kidney function can seem to come out of nowhere and include symptoms such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness
• Less, infrequent urination
• Trouble sleeping
• Muscle cramps
• Dry, itchy skin
• Shortness of breath as the result of fluid buildup in the lungs
• Chest pain as the result of fluid buildup around the heart
• Swelling of extremities like the feet and ankles
• Decreased cognitive function and focus

What is a creatinine blood test?

A creatinine blood test determines if your kidneys are working properly. It does this by measuring the amount of creatinine found in your blood. Your body uses a waste product of creatinine for energy production; the kidneys filter creatinine out of your blood. Elevated creatinine levels in your blood indicate that your kidneys are not operating at peak efficiency. Depending on how high the numbers are, it could be an indication of impaired kidney function or even disease.

Creatinine blood tests are a great way to identify potential issues with your kidneys and give doctors the clarity to address them before they can cause any long-term damage.

Who should get a creatinine blood test

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above or are advised by your medical professional, a creatinine blood test would be a good idea. It’s important to pay close attention to your body and not wait too long after experiencing symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, because kidneys are so good at working even when under crisis, symptoms may not appear until irreversible damage has already occurred. Creatinine blood tests can serve as a convenient preventative measure for early detection.

How to get a creatinine blood test

There are several options when it comes to receiving a creatinine blood test. While getting one at a medical clinic is possible, this can be extremely inconvenient for most. Thankfully there are other more convenient options out there.

DIY, at-home tests are an option many are using. However, administering the test on your own can produce mixed results. It is an uncomfortable process to do on your own, but it can also introduce more potential for inaccurate results.

For this reason, a growing number of people are opting for a personalized, in-home creatinine blood test. An in-home appointment provides a professional lab draw in the comfort and convenience of your own home or office. For busy people or parents with families, this testing method is the most effective way to prioritize kidney health.

If you are looking to schedule a convenient in-home creatinine blood test from a medical professional, our team is standing by to help make it happen.

Source:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/creatinine-test/about/pac-20384646

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