Side Effects Of C-reactive Protein

Physicians use a variety of types of information to determine your risk of certain diseases. One type of blood test assesses your levels of C-reactive protein, or CRP, a compound associated with inflammation in your body. Having a high CRP level increases your risk of several medical conditions. Youi should discuss your CRP levels with a physician.

C-reactive Protein

CRP is a type of protein found in your blood. When a body part suffers an infection or injury and becomes inflamed, your liver produces CRP. Doctors use CRP as an indicator of inflammation somewhere in your body. However, it is not possible to determine precisely where the inflammation is based on CRP levels alone.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a medical condition in which your joints become inflamed. This inflammation causes joint pain, stiffness, muscle strains and fatigue. Several medical conditions cause joint inflammation, resulting in elevated CRP levels. Your doctor may perform a CRP test to determine whether you have a form of arthritis.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Some medical conditions cause inflammation of your small intestine, or colon, known as inflammatory bowel disease. This inflammation may occur in your entire intestinal wall or in specific cells in your gut lining. Elevated CRP levels may occur because of inflammatory bowel disease.

Heart Disease

Many people think of cholesterol levels as important indicators of heart disease risk. However, elevated CRP levels may be better indicators for some individuals. Having a high CRP level puts you at a higher risk of having heart disease, stroke, chest pain or other cardiovascular problems. Physicians use a CRP test to assess heart disease risk for people who have an intermediate risk based on lifestyle choices, family history and current health status.

Other Conditions

A high CRP level is associated with several other medical conditions, including lupus, pelvic inflammatory disease and infections. Your physician may order a CRP test to determine whether you have one of these conditions.