What Will a Doctor Do If CRP Is High?
A doctor will investigate the cause of elevated CRP and recommend appropriate interventions.
A high C-reactive protein (CRP) level indicates inflammation in the body. This inflammation can stem from various sources, including infections, autoimmune diseases, or conditions like cardiovascular disease. [Source: Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, MedlinePlus]
What a Doctor Will Do:
- Further investigation: The doctor will not solely rely on a high CRP level for diagnosis. They will order additional tests to pinpoint the underlying cause. This might include blood tests to check for infections, imaging studies, or other assessments depending on the suspected condition. [Source: WebMD, Medical News Today]
- Treatment of the underlying cause: Once the source of inflammation is identified, the doctor will focus on treating that specific condition. This could involve antibiotics for an infection, medications to manage an autoimmune disease, or lifestyle modifications to address cardiovascular risk factors. [Source: Verywell Health]
- Lifestyle recommendations: Even without a specific diagnosis, the doctor might suggest lifestyle changes to help reduce inflammation. These changes often include diet modifications (such as adopting an anti-inflammatory diet) and increased physical activity. [Source: Verywell Health]
- Medication: In certain situations, medication may be prescribed. Statins, for example, might be recommended if high CRP is linked to cardiovascular risk. [Source: WebMD]
It's crucial to remember that a high CRP level is a marker of inflammation, not a disease itself. The doctor's actions will be directed at addressing the root cause of the elevated CRP. [Source: LabCorp]
High-Sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) and Cardiovascular Risk
High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) is a more precise measurement of CRP, often used to assess cardiovascular risk. High hs-CRP levels can indicate a heightened risk of heart disease. [Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine, Mount Sinai]
Note: If your CRP level is elevated, you should always discuss it with your doctor. They can provide a proper diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan. Self-treating based solely on a high CRP level is not recommended.
