What do high levels of creatine in the blood indicate?
A SIMPLE blood test commonly used to measure kidney function is a highly accurate predictor of heart attack and stroke in patients with high blood pressure, a new study indicates. People with high levels of the substance creatinine in their blood were five times more likely to die of heart attack or stroke than those with low levels, researchers said. Creatinine is a natural byproduct of the breakdown of muscle tissue. It is found in the blood and excreted in the urine. High levels of it in the blood indicate that the kidney is unable to cleanse it from the body. In light of the new findings, patients with high blood pressure should have their creatinine levels tested at least once annually, the scientists said. If the levels are high, patients should probably seek more intensive treatment or take further precautions against heart disease, like losing weight, lowering cholesterol or cutting down on smoking.
