L-arginine stimulates the release of nitric oxide from the walls of blood vessels, bettering circulation. Several different kidney conditions could cause elevated creatinine levels. An elevated level may suggest the kidneys arteries are swollen as a result of an autoimmune disease or an infection. It can indicate that this kidneys suffer from a bacterial infection. It can indicate that some of the small tubes inside kidneys have dead cells. It can indicate a kidney stone. Elevated levels may also indicate a reduction in the circulation of blood to the kidneys due to diabetes complications, shock, atherosclerosis, congestive heart failure or dehydration.