Raised inflammatory marks on blood tests

Hi, I'm a 39 year old mum. I've been ill since October 2016 with chest infections, viral and bacterial infections, colds and a long lasting irritating cough that won't go, along with wheezing and shortness of breath. I also feel very run down and sometimes my vision gets slightly blurred. I have seen my GP numerous times and finally had some blood tests done for diabetes, liver, kidney, iron, cholesterol and the results have come back saying that the inflammation markers are high. What could this mean with my symptoms. I have never had any issues with my health before?

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It does sound as if you may have an autoimmune disorder and your GP should refer you to a rheumatologist. It doesn't sound typical of the disorder we talk about on this forum, polymyalgia rheumatica, and I doubt many rheumies would think you had it at your age, it tends to be in people past their mid-40s, mostly over 50. Yes, raised ESR/CRP is a sign in PMR but there are many other things that could cause the raised inflammatory markers, not least the chest problems.

If the GP is not proactive in referring you, take someone with you to the doctor to vouch for how unwell you are and emphasise the need for proper investigation. Good luck.

[Hidden in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you for you advice. I will look into this. I am back to see my GP on Monday. Many thanks

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Hidden]

Do tell me how you get on - maybe someone here can point you somewhere helpful.

[Megams]

Hi Lmck001 - I am sorry to read of your chest/viral/bacterial/breathing issues. You are young to be suddenly displaying such a change to your health.

The constant visits to the Dr leaves one feeling totally bewildered, albeit exasperated in not having some answers. I know this does take time but struggling with respiratory issues can be distressing.

Have you had a chest x-ray or any other imaging of your lungs?

Your bronchial tubes certainly sound inflamed. Has your Dr prx'd an inhaler of sorts to assist you with your wheezing and shortness of breath?

I am tempted to say that your vision issues may be tied up with the shortness of breath. I have an asthmatic propensity when down with respiratory issues of any kind and my sight is never at its best during this time.

I agree with PMRpro that you are displaying characteristics of an underlying auto-immune disorder of sorts.

Special thoughts are sent your way in the meantime.

[Jean56]

You mention you have had blood tests, have you been tested for thyroid problems? Your symptoms are the same as mine were before the doctors eventually decided I had an underactive thyroid. It took them six months to come to this conclusion. Now taking thyroxine and have six monthly blood tests to check thyroid function. The problem with having one auto immune disease is you are prone to suffer from other auto immune diseases.