Skip to main content
Your session has expired. Reloading...
Kidney

Creatinine: Normal Values and What a High Result Means

Creatinine is the most widely used marker for kidney function assessment. Regular monitoring provides early insight into kidney health and helps ensure timely intervention if filtration capacity begins to decline.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Your reference range
umol/l
38 149 umol/l
Reference ranges by group, in umol/l
Male · 6–12 years 38–63 umol/l
38 63
Male · 13–18 years 48–101 umol/l
48 101
Male · 19–50 years 61–113 umol/l
61 113
Male · 51–65 years 61–120 umol/l
61 120
Male · 66–80 years 62–134 umol/l
62 134
Male · 81 years and older 65–149 umol/l
65 149
Female · 6–12 years 38–65 umol/l
38 65
Female · 13–18 years 46–83 umol/l
46 83
Female · 19–50 years 48–91 umol/l
48 91
Female · 51–65 years 48–99 umol/l
48 99
Female · 66–80 years 48–113 umol/l
48 113
Female · 81 years and older 49–132 umol/l
49 132
38 149 umol/l

Source: NVKC Reference population: Nederlandse huisartsenpopulatie (NUMBER, n=7.574.327)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

Creatinine: what this test measures

This test measures the concentration of creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is produced at a relatively constant rate from the breakdown of creatine phosphate in muscle tissue and is almost entirely filtered by the kidneys.

Because its production rate is generally stable, rising blood creatinine levels typically indicate that the kidneys are not filtering as efficiently as they should. It is one of the most commonly used markers in routine kidney function assessment.

Creatinine: why this value matters

Creatinine is central to assessing kidney health. It is used to calculate the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which is the primary measure for staging chronic kidney disease.

Early detection of rising creatinine levels can prompt timely intervention, helping to slow the progression of kidney damage. Monitoring creatinine is also important for adjusting medication dosages, as many drugs are cleared by the kidneys.

Creatinine: when is testing worthwhile?

Creatinine testing is a standard component of routine blood work and comprehensive metabolic panels. It is particularly important for individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.

More frequent testing may be recommended for those taking medications that can affect the kidneys, or for individuals who have been diagnosed with any stage of chronic kidney disease.

Creatinine: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Low muscle mass or muscle wasting
Unintended weight loss
Fatigue and general weakness

High Levels

Fatigue and persistent tiredness
Swelling in the face, ankles, or feet
Nausea or loss of appetite
Decreased urine output or changes in urination
Muscle cramps

Creatinine: what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low creatinine may indicate reduced muscle mass. Consider evaluation if unexpected.

If High

Elevated creatinine may indicate kidney dysfunction. Consult your healthcare provider for kidney function evaluation.

Female

If Low

Low creatinine may indicate reduced muscle mass. Consider evaluation if unexpected.

If High

Elevated creatinine may indicate kidney dysfunction. Consult your healthcare provider for kidney function evaluation.

Creatinine: lifestyle and this value

Maintain adequate hydration to support optimal kidney filtration. Avoid excessive protein supplementation, as very high protein intake can temporarily raise creatinine levels.

Manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension carefully, as these are the leading causes of kidney damage. Limit the use of NSAIDs and other potentially nephrotoxic substances, and discuss all supplements with your healthcare provider.

Creatinine: frequently asked questions

Does muscle mass affect creatinine levels?
Yes, creatinine is a byproduct of muscle metabolism, so individuals with greater muscle mass tend to have higher baseline creatinine levels. This is why reference ranges may vary and should be interpreted in the context of your body composition.
Can creatinine levels fluctuate day to day?
Minor fluctuations are normal and can be influenced by hydration, recent exercise, or dietary protein intake. However, a consistent upward trend may indicate declining kidney function and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
What is the relationship between creatinine and eGFR?
eGFR is calculated using your creatinine level along with factors such as age, sex, and body size. As creatinine rises, eGFR typically decreases, indicating reduced kidney filtration. Together, they provide a comprehensive assessment of kidney function.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

Whoop

Whoop

A 43-biomarker comprehensive health panel inspired by WHOOP Advanced Labs — a deep look at metabolism, cardiovascular risk, hormones, liver, kidney and inflammation.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Total Testosterone Bicarbonate Calcium Chloride Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin HOMA-IR ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Bilirubin (Total) Total Protein Urea (BUN) Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Transferrin Saturation Lipoprotein(a) Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€499,-
Whoop

Whoop Heart Health

A 45-biomarker heart health panel inspired by the WHOOP Heart Health Panel — an advanced look at cholesterol, lipoproteins, inflammation and kidney function.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) Cystatin C Uric Acid
€629,-
Whoop

Whoop Performance Health

A 50-biomarker performance panel inspired by the WHOOP Performance Health Panel — recovery, blood production, thyroid, hormones, iron and nutrient status for people who train.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor) Creatine Kinase (CK) Reticulocytes Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) Vitamin B12 Folate (Folic Acid)
€689,-
Whoop

Whoop Metabolic Health

A 51-biomarker metabolic panel inspired by the WHOOP Metabolic Health Panel — blood sugar regulation, insulin, thyroid, liver and the mineral cofactors behind your metabolism.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) Leptin Zinc Selenium Iodine Copper Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)
€799,-
Whoop

Whoop Women's Health

A 53-biomarker women's health panel inspired by the WHOOP Women's Health Panel — fertility, cycle and thyroid hormones plus a complete metabolic and nutrient base.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) Progesterone Prolactin TPO Antibodies Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) Leptin Vitamin B12 Folate (Folic Acid) Phosphorus
€709,-
Whoop

Whoop Men's Health

A 48-biomarker men's health panel inspired by the WHOOP Men's Health Panel — testosterone, PSA and prostate health plus a complete metabolic and hormone base.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Prolactin Leptin Uric Acid Zinc
€659,-

Medical reviewer

Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
CIBG Ministerie van Volksgezondheid,
Welzijn en Sport Official BIG registration BIG 49928676701 Opens in a new tab

Creatinine

€7,-