RAISED CPR

[Nolsie]

Hi, I am in Europe after 3 weeks in the UK where I contracted flu. High fever, shivers, body aches for 2 days. Now terrible cough, sore throat and headache. Went to see the gp two days ago who sent me for bloodtests, I haven't heard from her since. Got the results through the mail, crp very raised at 74. I have managed to get a follow-up appointment tomorrow with another doctor.

My question: should the raised crp be treated by antibiotics? I am not getting better, still low grade fever, terrible coughing.

I have increased my pred from 2.5mg to 5mg for the last 4 days, hoping that it will help fight the inflammation.

Thank you for your advice.

[SheffieldJane]

Flu is a virus but it could be that you have now developed a chest infection therefore antibiotics would be appropriate. Hopefully the new doctor can diagnose you properly. With Pred at your low dose it would be appropriate to follow “ sick day rules”. Personally I would increase by 5 mgs for a week to 10 days then drop straight back down to 2.5 mgs with the need to taper. For a full explanation on sick day rules please look at FAQs on this site. It can be accessed below your post. Get well soon!

[Nolsie in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thank you, SheffieldJane

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Not sure we can help a lot. Antibiotics are only any use in flu if you develop a secondary bacterial infection, flu is a virus and doesn't respond to abx. CRP will rise with a chest infection anyway. Real flu lasts more like 2 weeks - not 2 days!

Europe comprises 27 countries - where are you? As we keep saying here, every country has different cultures when it comes to medicine.

[piglette]

Just because you have a high CRP does not mean you should be having antibiotics. Your symptoms should point to whether you have a bacterial infection or not.