C-reactive protein – what it is, what it is for and side effects!

C -reactive protein (CRP) is a substance produced by the liver that increases in the presence of inflammation in the body. An elevated level of this type of protein is identified with blood tests and is considered a non-specific “marker” for the disease.

In addition, data from a large number of studies also suggest that, over time, chronic low-level internal inflammation can lead to many serious age-related diseases, including heart disease, some forms of cancer , and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson ‘s. and Alzheimer’s .

What are the causes of elevated C-reactive protein?

Elevated C-reactive protein  can indicate many different conditions, including cardiovascular disease, cancer , infection , and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus , and inflammatory bowel disease.

Additionally, the chronic inflammation behind an elevated CRP level can also be influenced by genetics, a sedentary lifestyle, excess stress, and exposure to environmental toxins such as secondhand tobacco smoke.

Diet has a huge impact, particularly one that contains a lot of refined, processed and manufactured foods.

How high is C-reactive protein diagnosed?

Levels of this protein are measured using a blood test. There are two tests for elevated CRP. It can show a non-specific elevation of CRP that occurs with general inflammatory changes in the body.

The other test, the us-CRP, is a measure of inflammation in blood vessels. This is the test needed to help establish heart disease risk.

What is the C-reactive protein test used for:

The C-reactive protein  (CRP) test is a blood test that checks for infection or inflammation in the body. It is used to detect the severity of inflammation or whether you are responding to treatment. It doesn’t show where the inflammation is in your body.

Why would I need this test?

You may need this test if your specialist suspects you have an infection or an inflammation-related condition (such as inflammatory bowel disease or rheumatoid arthritis ). PCR can help confirm a diagnosis and assess how treatment is going for these types of conditions.

Sometimes PCR is tested if a pregnant woman has ruptured her membranes (broke her waters) early. PCR can indicate if there is a problem with the baby. A special type of PCR called high-sensitivity PCR (us-CRP) can help determine your risk of heart disease .

Side effect of C-reactive protein:

As mentioned above, C-reactive protein in high amounts in the blood can cause various health problems such as lupus , inflammatory bowel disease, cancer , infections, autoimmune conditions, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s .