Safety of Creatine Use with Horseshoe Kidney, Hypertension, and GERD
**Age:** 29 **Gender:** Male **Height:** 6 feet **Weight:** 68 kg **Location:** India **Current Medications:** Stamlo 5mg for hypertension, daily intake of Vitamin C 500mg **Smoking History:** Non-smoker **Medical Background:** Born with a horseshoe kidney (kidney function tests are normal), diagnosed with high blood pressure, and managing GERD with medication **Duration of Inquiry:** Not a medical issue, merely seeking guidance regarding a supplement Greetings, healthcare professionals, I've been consistently working out at the gym for about 5 to 6 years but have found it challenging to significantly increase my muscle mass. I'm contemplating the use of creatine to enhance my muscle development, yet I have some reservations due to my health conditions. I was born with horseshoe kidney, along with having high blood pressure and managed GERD. Can you advise if creatine is generally safe for someone with my health profile, or would it be wise to refrain from using it? Your expertise would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Answers (1)
7/20/2025, 10:30:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
Main Points: Creatine can be generally safe for many people, but given your specific conditions, it's essential to exercise caution. Monitoring kidney function and blood pressure is crucial.
Explanation:
Creatine is a popular supplement often used to enhance muscle mass and improve exercise performance. For most healthy individuals, it's considered safe, but since you have a horseshoe kidney, hypertension, and GERD, some extra considerations are warranted.
-
Horseshoe Kidney: This condition can affect kidney function in some cases, even if current tests are normal. Creatine, when metabolized, produces waste products filtered by the kidneys. It's crucial to ensure that your kidneys operate well before beginning any supplement.
-
Hypertension: Creatine can cause water retention and may influence blood pressure in some individuals. Since you are already managing hypertension, it's important to keep your blood pressure stable.
-
GERD: While creatine does not typically exacerbate GERD, any significant changes in diet or supplementation might potentially affect your esophagus or stomach acid levels. Monitoring how you feel after taking it is essential.
Next Steps:
-
Consultation: Although you may not want to see a healthcare professional right now, it's advisable to discuss your creatine use with a doctor who knows your medical history, especially regarding your horseshoe kidney.
-
Start Low: If you decide to proceed after obtaining medical advice, consider starting with a lower dose of creatine to monitor how your body reacts. The typical starting dose is around 2-3 grams per day, rather than the full loading dose.
-
Keep Hydrated: Ensure you drink plenty of water, as hydration can help your kidneys process creatine without added strain.
-
Monitor Symptoms: Track any changes in your blood pressure and any gastrointestinal symptoms associated with GERD. If you notice any worsening of symptoms, discontinue use and reassess.
-
Diet Consideration: Focus on a balanced diet rich in protein and other nutrients to support muscle growth without relying solely on supplements.
If you have concerns or uncertainties, feel free to reach out for further guidance. Your well-being is paramount, and it's important to make informed choices about any supplements you consider.
Related Questions
Inquiry about Genetic Testing and Its Implications
Age 45, height 5'4", weight 240 lbs, Caucasian; has a background of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and obesity (achieved a weight loss of 74 pounds over the last two years); suffers from hypertension and elevated cholesterol levels; has endured various joint injuries due to an accident that required lumbar fusion from L3 to S1, along with reconstructive surgeries on the shoulder, ankle, and knee; experiences anxiety, depression, and migraines. I recently underwent comprehensive genome sequencing and discovered several significant abnormalities that require consultation with an endocrinologist. I am interested to know how healthcare providers react when patients present these types of findings. My intention is not to come across as demanding or to imply that I possess greater knowledge than my physician. However, after numerous tests and persistent efforts to seek answers over the years, I feel that we may have uncovered a genuine explanation for my symptoms, and I wish to ensure that my concerns are acknowledged and taken seriously.
Inquiry About Dental Procedures Before Major Surgery
Recently, my mother made a sudden decision to undergo a total dental extraction. She had her upper teeth removed approximately two weeks ago, and just yesterday, the lower ones were taken out. She is slated for a pre-operative assessment on Monday morning, ahead of a significant back surgery scheduled for Tuesday, which may last between eight to ten hours and necessitates intubation. I am curious about the likelihood that her doctor might postpone the surgery due to her recent dental procedure. This concern is heightened as we have booked a hotel and my husband has arranged to take two days off work for this event. Although I am still within the timeframe to cancel our hotel reservation, I am hesitant to do so if her surgery is still on track. To give a bit more context, my mother is a 54-year-old Caucasian woman, standing 5'6" and weighing 160 pounds. She does not consume alcohol, has been a potential smoker, and recently (a few months back) ceased using drugs (meth) as mandated by drug court. As far as I know, she isn’t currently prescribed any medications, apart from possibly antibiotics and Lortabs following her tooth extractions.
Abrupt Onset of Eye Discomfort
I’m a 23-year-old male with a history of slight near-sightedness but no other significant eye problems. About three days ago, I woke up to find that my eyes felt intensely painful, similar to the sensation one experiences after a lack of sleep. Although I've been getting ample rest each night, this discomfort hasn't subsided. Both eyes are affected equally without any redness, burning sensations, or visual disturbances. The soreness is quite pronounced, making it challenging to concentrate on everyday activities.
My Relationship with Milk Consumption
For nearly two decades, I have predominantly relied on milk as my primary source of hydration, consuming around five liters daily. Although I recognize that this reliance might not be the healthiest choice, my low appetite has perpetually left me underweight. In the past, I attempted to transition to drinking water; however, I noticed a concerning drop in weight along with persistent fatigue. My inquiry is whether there exists a more nutritious method to obtain calories without resorting to solid foods, and ideally, without incurring high costs?
When Can I Expect to Drive Again?
I’m a 35-year-old who suffered a spiral fracture in my right leg affecting both the fibula and tibia. Five weeks post-surgery, I've begun my rehabilitation journey, having undergone physical therapy for three weeks now. I’ve noticed that my leg is beginning to regain sensation, with improved control over my ankle and feeling returning to the sole of my foot. Given this progress, what is a realistic timeframe for when I might be able to drive safely once more?