Hydrate with water regularly (unless you have fluid restrictions from a clinician)
Follow a kidney-friendly diet (limit sodium; avoid high-salt processed foods)
Limit protein intake if advised by your clinician or dietitian
Avoid creatine supplements and high-dose protein powders
Avoid nonessential nephrotoxic medications (e.g., NSAIDs like ibuprofen/naproxen) unless prescribed
Review all medications and supplements with your clinician for kidney safety
Manage blood pressure with prescribed treatment and targets
Control blood sugar if you have diabetes (follow diabetes care plan)
Treat underlying causes (e.g., urinary obstruction, infections, kidney disease) with clinician guidance
Stop smoking and limit alcohol
Maintain a healthy weight and engage in regular, moderate physical activity as tolerated
Check for and address dehydration, recent heavy exercise, or muscle injury
Ask your clinician whether medication or lab factors could be raising creatinine (e.g., certain antibiotics, lab interference)
Get repeat testing after resolving reversible factors and follow up on kidney function trends
Seek urgent care if you have reduced urination, swelling, severe fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, or confusion