Creatinine is a natural waste product that your body produces when muscles use energy. Healthy kidneys filter creatinine from the blood and remove it through urine. When creatinine levels are high, it may indicate that your kidneys are not filtering waste efficiently, there could be underlying kidney damage or disease, or you might be dehydrated or have another medical condition affecting kidney function. This is important because high creatinine is often one of the earliest warning signs of kidney trouble, and if left untreated, it can progress to chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure. To protect your kidney health, make sure to drink enough water, manage your blood pressure and blood sugar, avoid unnecessary painkillers, and see a doctor promptly for blood and urine tests. Early detection and timely treatment can help keep your kidneys healthy.