C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test
What is a c-reactive protein (CRP) test?
A CRP test stands for c-reactive protein test that determines the amount of c-reactive protein (CRP) in a blood sample. CRP is a protein that is produced by the liver. Normally, your blood contains low quantities of c-reactive protein. If any part of the body is inflamed, your liver releases more CRP into the bloodstream. High CRP levels may indicate a significant health issue that causes inflammation.
Inflammation is your body's way of defending and healing the tissues after an accident, or other diseases. Inflammation can include both acute (rapid) and temporary inflammation. Inflammation can occur after external injury like a cut or it may be internal.
Inflammation that lasts for too long might harm healthy tissues. This is referred to as chronic (long-term) inflammation. Chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, and other conditions can all induce long-term inflammation. Chronic inflammation can also occur if the tissues are regularly harmed or inflamed, such as by smoking or environmental toxins.
A CRP test can determine whether there is inflammation or not and if there is then how much inflammation is there in the body. The test, however, cannot determine the reason or condition causing the inflammation or which region of your body is affected.
What is the use of the CRP test?
A CRP test may be used to aid in the detection or monitoring of inflammation in acute or chronic illnesses such as:
A CRP test may be used by your doctor to determine if medications for chronic inflammation are effective or not. It is also done to determine treatment options if you have sepsis. Sepsis is your body's overreaction to an infection that has spread to your bloodstream.
Why do I require a CRP test?
This test may be required if you have signs of a bacterial infection, such as:
A CRP test may also be required if your doctor suspects you have a persistent illness that causes inflammation. The symptoms will vary according to the disease.
If you have an infection or a chronic illness that causes inflammation, you may require this test to monitor your health and treatment. CRP levels fluctuate according to the extent of inflammation in your body. If your CRP levels reduce, it indicates that your anti-inflammatory medicine is working or that you're recovering on your own.
What happens during a CRP test?
A tiny needle will be used by a healthcare expert to draw blood from a vein in your arm. Following the insertion of the needle, a small quantity of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial. When the needle is inserted or goes in or out, one may feel a slight sting. This procedure normally takes around five minutes.
How to prepare for the test?
Some medications may have an impact on your results. As a result, inform your provider about any vitamins or medications you use, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Do not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor.
Is there any risk associated with the test?
CRP Test does not have any kind of risk associated with it. Having a blood test might cause little discomfort or bruising where the needle was inserted, but it will go soon.
Understanding results
Your CRP test results indicate the level of inflammation in the body. However, your test findings will not tell you what is causing the inflammation. Your physician will consider your CRP values, as well as the results of other tests, your symptoms, and your medical history, to determine a diagnosis.
Healthy persons have very low levels of CRP in their blood. Any rises over normal indicate that your body is inflamed. However, the laboratories test CRP levels in different ways and interpret "normal" CRP ranges differently, that is why it is very important to consult your doctor and understand what your reports show.
Important information to know about CRP testing?
A CRP test is frequently mistaken for a high-sensitivity CRP test (hs). They both assess CRP, but for very different causes. A hs-CRP test detects minute changes in your CRP levels. It is used to calculate your risk of developing heart disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is a CRP Test done?
A C-reactive protein test is done to check for an infection and to aid in the diagnosis of a chronic inflammatory condition like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
2. What happens if CRP is high?
High CRP levels indicate a significant health issue that is causing inflammation. Inflammation is the body's natural way of defending and healing your tissues after an accident, illness, or other diseases.
3. What is considered a normal CRP level?
Normal CRP levels are less than 0.9 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Your CRP level might be influenced by a variety of factors. Minor CRP level elevations can occur due to the following smoking cigarettes.
4. Can stress increase CRP levels?
Yes, stress can increase CRP levels, as there is a link between stress and low-grade inflammation-related diseases.
5. What factors can affect a CRP test?
CRP levels may be relatively higher than usual due to a variety of factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, cigarette smoking, diabetes, etc. Certain medications might also cause CRP levels to drop below normal. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), aspirin, and steroids are examples.
6. How much time does a CRP test take?
A CRP test will not take more than 10 minutes.
7. Is the CRP test painful?
No, CRP test is not that painful but one may experience little discomfort and pain while the blood test is taken.
8. Is it necessary to have an empty stomach for the CRP test?
Your doctor will inform you everything about what you need to do before a CRP test, however in most circumstances, nothing special is required (such as fasting before the test).
9. Where can I take the CRP test in Hyderabad?
To take the CRP test in Hyderabad, visit Medicover Hospitals, where you can take the CRP test as well as other tests with accurate results on time.
10.What is the cost of a CRP test?
The cost of the CRP test is approximately Rs. 500. However, the cost price can vary from place to place.
