Creatinine is a waste product from muscle metabolism cleared by the kidneys. Dehydration can raise measured creatinine because plasma volume and kidney perfusion change, so adequate hydration may normalize a “false” or transient elevation. However, if creatinine is high due to impaired kidney filtration, simply drinking more water will not fix the underlying issue. Excess water can also be harmful in conditions such as heart failure, advanced kidney disease, or hyponatremia risk. A practical approach is to review eGFR trends, urine albumin/protein, blood pressure, medications (especially NSAIDs), recent intense exercise, and high meat/protein intake. For new elevations, correcting hydration and repeating the test is often the first step, followed by medical evaluation if it persists.