What Should I Do If My Phosphocreatine Kinase (CK) Level Is High?
Elevated creatine phosphokinase requires treatment based on the underlying cause, which may be due to alcohol poisoning, hypothyroidism, acute myocardial infarction, viral myocarditis, and other reasons. Symptom improvement requires medication and surgical treatment, and timely medical diagnosis is essential. Here are some specific scenarios:
1. Alcohol Poisoning
Frequent alcohol consumption and excessive alcohol intake in a short period of time may stimulate the muscles and elevate creatine phosphokinase levels. It is necessary to stop drinking alcohol and, if necessary, induce vomiting or gastric lavage to reduce the stimulatory effect of alcohol on the body.
2. Hypothyroidism
Insufficient thyroid hormones may affect the body's metabolism, leading to slower creatine phosphokinase metabolism and elevated levels. It is advisable to include iodine-rich foods in the diet, such as seaweed and kelp. In severe cases, patients can take levothyroxine sodium tablets, compound aluminium hydroxide tablets, ferrous sulfate tablets, and other medications prescribed by doctors to improve symptoms.
3. Acute Myocardial Infarction
Creatine phosphokinase is mainly found in the myocardium and is an indicator for diagnosing acute myocardial infarction. Elevated levels may indicate reduced blood flow to the heart and insufficient oxygen supply to the myocardium. Medications such as metoprolol succinate sustained-release tablets, aspirin enteric-coated tablets, and clopidogrel bisulfate tablets can be prescribed by doctors to improve symptoms. If symptoms persist after medication, percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary bypass surgery may be necessary.
4. Viral Myocarditis
Viral infection of the myocardium may lead to increased levels of creatine phosphokinase produced within the myocardium, accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, and fatigue. Antiviral medications such as aciclovir tablets, valaciclovir hydrochloride tablets, and famciclovir tablets can be prescribed by doctors to improve symptoms. Additionally, it may also be related to pulmonary embolism, which may be caused by endothelial injury and venous blood stasis, manifesting as symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and agitation. Patients need to take warfarin sodium tablets, apixaban tablets, rivaroxaban tablets, and other medications prescribed by doctors for relief. Regular follow-up is required after active treatment to monitor changes in creatine phosphokinase levels and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Regular outdoor exercise is beneficial for improving immune function.