Donor creatinine levels

[AMHulstine]

Hi-

I am 9 days out from my kidney donation to a friend. I had some blood work today and the coordinator called to tell me my creatinine was up to 1.5 from 1.2, not a huge increase but I drink a lot of water. I have my 2 week post-op Monday and they’ll retest me then, and I’ll drink even more water in between, but now I’m anxious, has anyone else had this?

[marcyc NKF Ambassador NKF Peer Mentor]

That increase is not significant. Takes time to settle to a steady state. My husband went up to 9 and scared me to death, took 6 months to stabilize at 1.5-1.8. He is 3 years out and doing fine at that level. It is hard not to stress over the lab. But remember, you are paying some really smart doctors to do that! Best of luck.

[marcyc NKF Ambassador NKF Peer Mentor]

Oh I saw you said donor. I am a donor. Yes my creat went up post op but the docs said 6 months to stabilize. Runs 1.1-1.3 , 3 years out. Yes drink your water, limit caffeine. Moderate exercise. Best of luck.

[Happydonor]

I had a similar experience. My creatinine went up to 1.7 and slowly worked down to 1.4 which is where it remains today 7 years post donation. You should be fine. Thank you for your donation to your friend!!

[Sulyn]

Yes, as a donor to my husband 7 years ago, I agree that the creatinine level does fluctuate. However, with a healthy diet, lots of fluids and exercise my creatinine level has gone down and my last reading was .95 Best of luck to you!