Updated on - 03 Feb 2026
The body produces creatinine as a waste product due to regular muscle tissue breakdown and food protein digestion. Generally, this waste travels to the kidneys via the blood and is excreted in urine. But a high level of creatinine can be a sign of poor functioning of the kidneys, while a low level indicates low muscle mass.
Healthcare professionals generally conduct the creatinine blood test to diagnose kidney-related illnesses. So, what is the ideal range of creatinine in men and women, and what are the factors that affect these levels? This blog overviews the creatinine level ranges, factors that increase/reduce them and the symptoms to identify.
What are creatinine levels?
Creatinine is a waste product formed when creatine phosphate breaks down in the muscles. It is removed from the body by the kidneys, making its level a key marker of kidney function. Healthy kidneys maintain stable creatinine levels, although the normal range can vary depending on age, sex and muscle mass.
Results for normal creatinine level
The normal creatinine level for men is between 0.7 and 1.2 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL), and for women, it is between 0.5 and 1.1 mg/dL. Here is a comparison of normal, high, and low creatinine level values for men and women:
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Parameters
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Adult males (mg/dL)
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Adult females (mg/dL)
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Low
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0.5–0.8
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0.4–0.7
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Average
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0.7–1.2
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0.5–1.0
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High
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Over 1.4
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Over 1.2
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Factors that affect creatinine levels
Both high and low creatinine levels in the body are dangerous. Let’s look at the factors that affect them:
High creatinine levels
Here is why the kidney may have a high level of creatinine:
- Chronic illness: Damaged kidneys have trouble excreting creatinine from the blood and end up storing it. That’s why doctors use the creatinine level test to ascertain if the patient is suffering from a kidney disease.
- Increased protein consumption: The diet affects creatinine levels in the body. A protein-intensive diet can cause high levels of it in the body.
- Kidney obstruction: Several problems, like a kidney stone and an enlarged prostate, can obstruct the kidney’s functioning. It results in urine blockage and ultimately affects the kidneys’ ability to function properly.
- Strenuous exercise: Creatinine helps produce muscle energy, and an intense workout can increase its levels in the blood.
Low creatinine levels
A lower-than-normal level in your bloodstream is caused due to:
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy increases urine production and quicker creatinine excretion. It ultimately reduces the creatinine level in the blood.
- Rapid weight loss: Extreme weight loss leads to a decrease in muscle mass, ultimately affecting the creatinine levels in the body.
- Low muscle mass: Muscle breakdown produces creatinine. So, low muscle mass can directly impact its production.
Symptoms of abnormal creatinine levels
The symptoms of creatinine levels depend on whether they are more or less than the normal range.
Signs of high creatinine levels
High creatinine usually indicates reduced kidney function. Common symptoms include:
- Swelling in the legs, ankles or around the eyes
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Changes in urination, such as reduced or foamy urine
- Shortness of breath (due to fluid build-up)
- Confusion in severe cases
Signs of low creatinine levels
- Lack of strength or difficulty in exercising
- Fatigue and nausea
- Fluid retention
- Rapid weight loss
Health insurance coverage for kidney function tests and treatments
An increase or decrease in the creatinine levels can affect kidney functioning. That’s why several healthcare professionals recommend a test for timely diagnosis and effective treatment. However, a kidney-related treatment can be expensive, and not everyone is ready for it. That’s why, ensure that your health insurance policy covers basic kidney function tests and related treatments. A comprehensive medical insurance helps you be financially secure in times of need.
Conclusion
It is essential to maintain a normal creatinine level. When creatinine clearance is low, creatinine builds up in the blood. On the other hand, high levels indicate poor kidney functioning and deteriorating health. While you may not be able to control the creatinine levels by yourself, regular full-body checkups can help diagnose the problem in the early stages.
Once detected, the treatment can be costly. That’s where the critical illness insurance helps. It acts as a backbone during your blood tests, consultations and treatment courses. Taking care of your wellness is one step away with us. Fill out the form on the page to receive personalised guidance on health insurance.
FAQs
1. What do low creatinine levels mean?
A low level indicates reduced muscle mass, malnutrition, or liver disease in certain cases. It is best to consult a healthcare professional to diagnose the problem.
2. What is the ideal range of creatinine levels in men?
The normal range of creatinine is between 0.7 and 1.2 mg/dL for males and between 0.5 and 1.1 mg/dL for females.
3. Can drinking excess water lower creatinine?
Yes, staying hydrated can help improve the creatinine levels in your body.
4. When should you worry about creatinine levels?
You should worry when the creatinine levels are consistently higher than the normal range. It indicates potential kidney problems.
5. What are the symptoms of a high creatinine level?
The symptoms include a change in urination frequency, fatigue, swelling and shortness of breath.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.