Raised CRP

[Sanekate]

I had flare in Feb and increased Pred from 3.5 to 5, and am now pain free again. However I've just had blood test results back and my CRP has continued to rise (up to 12.8 from 10.4). Is this common?

[PMRpro Ambassador]

A rising trend is a sign you aren't on quite enough pred - even 1/2mg is the difference between enough and not.

[Sanekate in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks

[Rachmaninov2 in reply to PMRpro]

After taking 7mg prednisolone for a long time (having reduced from a starting dose of 15mg) plus 7.5 mg methotrexate (metoject for 4 weeks ) a week for 7 months I was advised to stop taking methotrexate (5 weeks ago) after feeling very unwell. My GP diagnosed a chest infection (4 weeks ago) and prescribed amoxicillin which I haven’t started yet due to changing blood pressure medication, from amlodipine to losartan. I don’t like to take more than one new medication at a time. Still not feeling well 5 weeks later, with lots of aches and pains, so on Saturday decided to increase pred. by 1/2 mg a day. I have a phone appointment with rheumatology nurse tomorrow to discuss the situation. I would appreciate any comments please PMRpro.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Rachmaninov2]

Well get on with that abx!! Yes, I KNOW changing two meds at once isn't a good idea BUT you need the antibiotics or the chest infection could get steadily worse and turn into pneumonia and even sepsis which is life-threatening. And since you have waited so long - you really need to be examined again.

[Rachmaninov2 in reply to PMRpro]

I will act on your good advice. Thank you very much!