Reasons and hazards of elevated creatine kinase levels

Elevated levels of creatine kinase may be caused by intense exercise, muscle injury, myocardial infarction, hypothyroidism, drug side effects, etc. Long term elevated levels may lead to hazards such as rhabdomyolysis and renal function damage.

1. Intense exercise:

High intensity exercise can cause transient damage to muscle cells, releasing creatine kinase into the bloodstream. Commonly seen within 24-48 hours after marathon and strength training, the value usually does not exceed 5 times the normal value, and can recover on its own after resting for 3-5 days. It is recommended to warm up and stretch before and after exercise to avoid sudden increases in exercise intensity.

2. Muscle injury:

Trauma or compression injury directly damages the muscle fiber membrane, causing a large amount of creatine kinase to leak out. When suffering from serious injuries such as car accidents and falls, the value can reach more than 50 times the normal value, accompanied by obvious swelling and pain. Mild strains can be relieved by applying ice, while severe muscle tears require fixed braking.

3. Myocardial infarction:

Myocardial cell ischemic necrosis releases specific CK-MB isoenzymes, which begin to increase 4-6 hours after onset and reach their peak at 18-24 hours. The typical manifestation is compression pain behind the sternum, and the electrocardiogram shows ST segment elevation. Immediate coronary angiography and thrombolytic therapy are required, as delayed treatment may lead to heart failure.

4. Hypothyroidism:

Thyroid hormone deficiency leads to abnormal muscle cell metabolism, with a mild increase of 2-3 times in creatine kinase. Accompanied by symptoms such as fear of cold, weight gain, and dry skin, TSH and free T4 testing are required for diagnosis. Oral levothyroxine sodium replacement therapy can gradually restore normal function.

5. Drug side effects:

Statins as lipid-lowering drugs may cause drug-induced myositis, and if creatine kinase levels increase by more than 10 times, the medication should be discontinued. Medications such as cyclosporine and colchicine can also interfere with muscle metabolism. During medication, the muscle enzyme spectrum should be monitored regularly, and if muscle pain or weakness occurs, seek medical attention promptly.

It is necessary to maintain a moderate exercise habit in daily life and avoid prolonged sitting or sudden intense exercise. Ensure a daily intake of 2000 milliliters of water to promote the elimination of metabolic waste, and consume more nuts rich in vitamin E and deep-sea fish to protect muscle cell membranes. People over 40 years old are recommended to have their myocardial enzyme spectrum checked annually, and those taking statins should have their creatine kinase rechecked every 3 months. When symptoms of rhabdomyolysis such as persistent muscle soreness and darkened urine color occur, emergency treatment is necessary to prevent acute kidney failure.