Creatine kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. It is used to measure the amount of energy being used by the body. A creatine kinase (CK) test is a blood test that measures the amount of CK in the blood. It is used to diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, including muscular diseases, injuries, and inflammation. It can also be used to detect heart attacks.
Why Do I Need a Creatine Kinase (CK) Test?
Your doctor may order a creatine kinase (CK) test if you are experiencing symptoms of a muscular disease, injury, or inflammation. It can also be used to detect a heart attack.
Who Performs a Creatine Kinase (CK) Test?
A healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nurse, will perform the test.
How Do I Prepare for a Creatine Kinase (CK) Test?
You do not need to do anything special to prepare for a creatine kinase (CK) test.
What Should I Expect During My Creatine Kinase (CK) Blood Test?
During the test, a healthcare professional will draw a sample of your blood. The sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What Should I Expect After My Creatine Kinase (CK) Test?
After the test, you may experience some minor bruising or discomfort at the site where the blood was drawn.
What Are the Risks of a Creatine Kinase (CK) Blood Test?
The risks of a creatine kinase (CK) blood test are minimal. The most common risk is minor bruising or discomfort at the site where the blood was drawn.
When Should I Know the Results of My Creatine Kinase (CK) Test?
The results of your creatine kinase (CK) test will usually be available within a few days. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.
What Do the Results of a Creatine Kinase (CK) Test Mean?
The results of a creatine kinase (CK) test will indicate the amount of CK in your blood. Normal levels are typically between 40 and 250 U/L. A high level of CK may indicate a muscular disease, injury, or inflammation. It can also indicate a heart attack.
Other Causes of Increased Creatine Kinase (CK) Levels
In addition to muscular diseases, injuries, and inflammation, other causes of increased CK levels include strenuous exercise, certain medications, and certain medical conditions.
Should I Be Concerned If I Have Higher-Than-Normal Creatine Kinase (CK) Levels?
If you have higher-than-normal CK levels, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor will be able to determine the cause of the elevated levels and recommend treatment, if necessary.
When Should I Call My Doctor?
If you have any questions or concerns about your creatine kinase (CK) test, you should contact your doctor.
References
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Creatine kinase (CK) blood test. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/creatine-kinase-ck-blood-test/about/pac-20384717
- Lab Tests Online. (2020). Creatine kinase (CK) test. Retrieved from https://labtestsonline.org/tests/creatine-kinase-ck-test
- WebMD. (2020). Creatine kinase (CK) test. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/creatine-kinase-ck-test#1
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