Creatinine.

The most common cause of high creatinine is kidney disease, which impairs the kidneys' ability to filter waste from the blood. Other frequent causes include dehydration, muscle-related problems like rhabdomyolysis, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can damage the kidneys over time. 

Kidney-related causes

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A long-term condition where the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter waste effectively. 

Acute kidney injury: A sudden loss of kidney function. 

Blocked urinary tract: A blockage can prevent waste from being properly flushed out of the body. 

Reduced blood flow to the kidneys: Conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease can affect blood flow, damaging kidney function. 

Other common causes

Dehydration: A lack of body fluid can temporarily increase creatinine levels. 

Muscle breakdown: Conditions that cause the breakdown of muscle fibers, such as rhabdomyolysis, release creatinine into the blood. 

High-protein diet or excessive meat consumption: Eating a large amount of protein or red meat can temporarily increase creatinine levels. 

Certain medications: Some drugs can affect kidney function or interfere with test results. 

Pregnancy-related issues: Conditions such as preeclampsia or eclampsia can cause a rise in creatinine. 

Less common causes

Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus can damage the kidneys. 

Polycystic kidney disease: A genetic disorder where cysts develop in the kidneys. 

It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the specific cause of high creatinine and the appropriate treatment plan. 

Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is the final, most severe stage of kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), where the kidneys have lost nearly all their function

. The number 1000+ is likely a measurement of protein in the urine (proteinuria) in milligrams (mg), indicating severe kidney damage, which is common at this advanced stage. 

Stage 5 CKD Details

• Kidney Function: In stage 5 CKD, the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is less than 15 mL/min, meaning the kidneys are working at less than 15% of their normal capacity.
• Proteinuria (Protein in Urine): The 1000+ mg value refers to a very high level of protein, specifically albumin, in a urine sample. This indicates significant kidney damage, as healthy kidneys retain protein in the blood.
• Symptoms: As the kidneys can no longer effectively filter waste and fluid, toxins build up in the body, leading to symptoms such as:
  • Severe fatigue and weakness
  • Swelling (edema) in hands, feet, and ankles
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
  • Persistent itching (due to toxin buildup)
  • Little or no urine production
  • Muscle cramps and trouble sleeping 

Treatment and Prognosis

Stage 5 CKD is irreversible, and without treatment, life expectancy is typically a few days to weeks. The main treatment options are: 

• Dialysis: This artificially removes waste products and excess fluid from the blood. Patients can live on dialysis for many years (average 5-10 years, some more than 20).
• Kidney Transplant: This involves surgically placing a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor. A successful transplant is considered the treatment option that is closest to natural kidney function.
• Conservative Care: This is an option for patients who choose not to pursue dialysis or transplant, focusing on managing symptoms and quality of life with medication and supportive care. 

A nephrologist (kidney specialist) will work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan based on their overall health, lifestyle, and preferences.