CRP (C-reactive protein) is a type of protein produced by the liver. His body mounts a complex response to events such as infection, tumors, and trauma. An increase in serum CRP concentration, along with a rise in body temperature and an increase in white blood cell count, becomes part of this response. This physiological response is aimed at eliminating the agent causing the infection or inflammation, reducing tissue damage, and activating the body’s repair mechanisms. In healthy individuals, serum CRP levels are very low. Once this response begins, the serum concentration rises rapidly and can increase up to a thousandfold within one day. Once the factor causing the CRP elevation is eliminated, the serum CRP level decreases within 18–20 hours, returning to normal levels. The CRP test is a diagnostic parameter used to identify inflammatory and infectious conditions—particularly cardiovascular diseases—and to monitor the response to treatment.
How Is the CRP Test Performed?
The CRP test can be described as a simple blood test. It is performed using a sample drawn from a specific vein in the body. It does not require any special preparation and can be done at any time of day, regardless of whether he has eaten or not. However, since some tests performed at the same time may require fasting, it is generally measured on an empty stomach. Since certain medications can affect CRP levels, it is very important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking.
What Is the Normal CRP Level?
It is low in newborns but rises over the course of a few days to reach adult levels. In healthy individuals, the average serum CRP level is 1.0 mg/L. With aging, the average CRP level may rise to 2.0 mg/L. In 90% of healthy individuals, the CRP level is below 3.0 mg/L. CRP levels above 3 mg/L are not considered normal; even in the absence of obvious symptoms, it is thought that an underlying condition may be present. Some laboratories report CRP concentrations in mg/dL. In such cases, the result can be interpreted as one-tenth of the mg/L value.
Symptoms of Elevated CRP
The symptoms of elevated C-reactive protein levels vary depending on the specific condition and its severity. Symptoms of elevated CRP include the following:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Chills
- Headache
- Nausea
- Eating and drinking disorders
- Depression
- Sleep problems
- Redness
- It presents with symptoms of swelling and pain.
Symptoms of acute infection include: a high fever, episodes of rapid heartbeat, profuse sweating, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, hives, dry mouth, lips, and skin, and memory loss.
How to Lower CRP Levels in the Blood?
C-reactive protein levels are low in healthy individuals, which indicates a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. The following methods can help reduce high C-reactive protein levels in the blood:
- Lose weight
- Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
- Reducing alcohol consumption or abstaining entirely
- Start taking probiotic supplements
- Focus on eating healthy foods and exercising
- Avoiding high-calorie foods and choosing lower-fat options
- Choosing foods like grains and vegetables instead of animal products
- Avoiding processed foods
- Consume foods prepared using healthy cooking techniques
CRP Test (C-Reactive Protein Test): What Conditions Is It Used to Diagnose?
The CRP test measures inflammation levels in the blood. Inflammation levels in the body can rise due to many causes, such as various infections, cancer, immune system disorders, and heart conditions.The CRP test helps diagnose these conditions. Elevated CRP levels may indicate the presence of inflammation or infection in the body, a risk of stroke or heart attack, a recent heart attack, tissue loss, or the presence of a tumor.