Blood Test revealed high levels of CRP which indicates severe inflammation

[Bea61]

Does anyone else have high levels of CRP and if so, what is recommended? GP wants to repeat blood tests and was not aware that a blood test could determine inflammation...it sorta makes sense as i have widespread OA and some days cannot move at all without taking lots of pain relief. Would appreciate any thoughts here.

[Badbessie]

C Reactive Protein CRP can be used as a diagnostic tool. However the big question is what is the cause as a sedentary lifestyle can cause a raised CRP along with numerous other conditions. Normally a GP will use a CRP along with other symptoms to make a diagnosis. I have Chronic Pain Syndrome, Regional Pain Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and severe Osteoarthritis but my CRP is rarely raised. However if I get a chest infection my CRP is raised and the level can indicate to my GP the need for steroids and antibiotics. When I had bilateral pneumonia my CRP was 425, A chest infection was 150. I think what I am trying to say is that on its own a CRP shows very little but indicates there may be a problem. However one test on its own means nothing that is why your GP is repeating it to eliminate test error. If it is still raised then other tests may be required before osteoarthritis can be blamed.

[Bea61 in reply to Badbessie]

Hi Badbessie, thank you for your detailed response..it sounds like you have a lot going on too. Am currently waiting for bladder prolapse repair and a repeat colonoscopy so I am leading a very sedentary lifestyle. Am no longer confident going out for more than 1hr and my anxiety is thru the roof. Hopefully I can update you when I receive further investigations and confirmed results.Hope you have the sun out wherever you are

😀

[Badbessie in reply to Bea61]

My wife is awaiting colonoscopy and also as psoriatic arthritis. She as had a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis for many years and even before treatment her inflammatory markers were rarely raised. However since she developed bowel problems her CRP as been raised. I just wonder if your levels of CRP are raised due to other causes than osteoarthritis?

[Batty1]

I have psoriatic arthritis and my CRP has been way above normal for almost 5 years and finally on a combo treatment my CRP is dropping and movement is becoming less troublesome…. So yes it does indicate inflammation but doesn’t tell the doctors why.

[Jacksyjack]

I can't believe your GP didn't know there was a blood test for inflammation! You might want to keep that in mind if they are not able to help you to your reasonable satisfaction.

[Bea61 in reply to Jacksyjack]

I'm the one who didn't have the knowledge about the inflammation - not my GP..I worded the query incorrectly.🙂

[Bidgie]

CRP means C Reactive protein and shows there is inflammation somewhere in the body. osteoarthritis is wear and tear of bones, usually in the joints and isn't usually counted or shown as inflammation. if the Dr you saw didn't know about CRP, I suggest you see, perhaps an older more experienced one. it is important that the CRP is checked ?monthly and that your blood kidney, liver and thyroid function are checked. There could be something wrong with them. Good luck. I had a raised CRP at Christmas but luckily now normal after treatment.

[Bea61 in reply to Bidgie]

I have a great GP and didn't word the comment correctly..I was unaware of the CRP in blood tests..

[Bea61]

UPDATE...had GP call me this week as, she is concerned that my iron levels in blood are very high but liver and kidneys are fine...thyroid ok and am not pre diabetic which I felt i was maybe. Waiting on colonoscopy as having bowel problems and also still waiting on prolapse fix.Had knee x-ray this week also - referral from 3 yrs ago!! Terrible knee pain today in back of knee so have it elevated...always said your health is your wealth...not feeling very wealthy toay but grateful for all your replies and support as it helps to know am not completely alone altho live alone x

[x-ray]

Sorry hun, but im in the UK. How do you tell if your CPS is up? x

[Bea61 in reply to x-ray]

Hi, the blood test shows this...