What is considered to be a high creatinine blood level?

According to MedicineNet, normal creatinine levels for men are 0.6 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter and 0.5 to 1.1 milligrams per deciliter in women. Having a high creatinine blood level is an indication of kidney failure and can present itself as dehydration, fatigue, swelling and shortness of breath.

It is important to determine if the kidney malfunction is a recent issue or a chronic one. Serum creatinine can be temporarily increased if a large amount of meat has been ingested. Taking certain drugs, such as cimetidine, can also raise levels, states MedicineNet. Chronically high levels can arise from high blood pressure and diabetes.