What causes elevated creatine kinase levels?
Sep 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, elevated creatine kinase levels may be caused by intense exercise, muscle spasms, medication effects, muscular dystrophy, myocarditis, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. In daily life, one should maintain a balanced diet, follow regular sleep and eating habits, avoid excessive fatigue, and pay attention to staying warm.
In general, elevated creatine kinase (CK) levels may be caused by intense exercise, muscle spasms, medication effects, muscular dystrophy, myocarditis, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Specific explanations are as follows:
1. Intense Exercise
During intense physical activity, muscle cells undergo strong contractions and heightened metabolic activity, which can lead to the release of creatine kinase from muscle cells into the bloodstream, resulting in elevated serum CK levels. In such cases, it is advisable to stop intense exercise and allow for adequate rest.
2. Muscle Spasms
When muscle spasms occur, muscle cells contract suddenly and involuntarily with great force. This intense contraction can also cause creatine kinase to be released from the cells into the blood, leading to elevated CK levels. Regular stretching and massage of the affected muscles may help relieve spasm and associated pain.
3. Medication Effects
Certain medications, such as statins used for lowering cholesterol or some antibiotics, may damage muscle cells and subsequently increase creatine kinase levels. Dosage adjustments or switching medications should be done under a doctor's guidance.
4. Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy, often hereditary, impairs the structure and function of muscle cells, leading to increased release of creatine kinase and thus elevated CK levels. Symptoms may include muscle weakness and atrophy. Patients should follow medical advice and may be prescribed medications such as vitamin E soft capsules, levocarnitine oral solution, and adenosine disodium triphosphate tablets for treatment.
5. Myocarditis
Myocarditis is typically caused by infections from viruses, bacteria, or fungi, which damage heart muscle cells. These injured cells release creatine kinase into the bloodstream, causing elevated CK levels. Symptoms may include chest pain. Under medical supervision, patients may be treated with medications such as Guanxin Danshen dripping pills, trimetazidine hydrochloride tablets, or injectable creatine phosphate sodium.
In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, regular sleep patterns, and healthy lifestyle habits, avoid excessive fatigue, and pay attention to staying warm.
