Creatine and kidney stones: what to know

Kidney stones are solid crystals that can move through the urinary tract. A stone may cause sharp flank or abdominal pain, painful urination, nausea or difficulty passing urine. Creatine itself is not a diagnosis and a symptom after taking it may have another explanation, including dehydration or a urinary infection. A history of stones, kidney disease, restricted fluid intake and training in hot conditions can change the advice you need.

Stop the supplement temporarily if symptoms began after starting it, and avoid strenuous training until you have been assessed. Drink fluids according to your clinician's advice; do not force large volumes if you have been told to restrict fluids. Note the location and severity of pain, urine changes, fever, vomiting and whether you can pass urine. A GP consultation can review medicines and supplements, examine you and decide whether urine tests, blood tests or an abdominal ultrasound are appropriate.

Seek urgent help for severe or worsening flank pain, fever or chills with urinary symptoms, repeated vomiting, blood in the urine, or inability to pass urine. These features can signal obstruction or infection and should not be managed by adjusting a supplement alone.

Could this be a kidney stone, dehydration or another urinary problem? Should I have urine and kidney-function checks? Is creatine suitable with my medical history, medicines and usual training conditions?