Originally published: 23.SEP.2020
Last updated: 05.DEC.2023
CRP, or C-reactive protein, is a key biomarker indicating inflammation in the body. Produced by the liver, its levels rise in response to inflammation or infection. Elevated CRP is associated with various health conditions and can often be an indicator of an underlying inflammatory disorder or other conditions, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Risk of heart disease
See also: What is C-Reactive Protein (CRP)?
What Conditions Cause High CRP?
There are several conditions associated with elevated CRP levels including infections, inflammatory disorders, and chronic diseases like cardiovascular issues. Other lifestyle factors such as obesity and smoking can also contribute. A high CRP level can suggest one of the following conditions or disorders are present:
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disorder that can cause pain and swelling in the joints - usually in the hands, wrists, and knees. While it can occur at any age, rheumatoid arthritis is most common among adults in their sixties [1].
Elevated CRP levels are commonly associated with RA due to increased systemic inflammation. Monitoring CRP can help to assess disease activity and guide treatment.
See also: Anti Inflammatory Foods: Foods to Help Inflammation
Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune condition that can cause damage to any part of the body. It occurs when the body’s immune system begins to attack its tissues and organs. Although the symptoms vary from person to person - inflammation, joint pain, and swelling are some of the most common [2].
Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels often accompany lupus, indicating increased systemic inflammation. Similar to RA, monitoring CRP can help assess disease activity and guide treatment decisions.
Risk of heart disease
Although it’s believed that a high CRP level may indicate an increased risk of heart disease, it’s important to remember that CRP levels tend to change over time and the results aren’t a definite indicator of your risk.
If you’re taking a CRP test to indicate your risk of heart disease, the Mayo Clinic suggests that the current risk levels used include:
- Low risk: hs-CRP level of less than 2.0 mg/L
- High risk: hs-CRP level greater than 2.0 mg/L
How Much CRP is Dangerous?
There isn't a universally agreed-upon threshold that categorizes C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as dangerous. However, generally, a high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) level below 10 mg/L is considered normal while levels between 10 and 100 mg/L may suggest acute inflammation, infection, or a more severe underlying condition.
It’s crucial to remember that your results can vary depending on several factors including age, gender, and health history. With that said, if your levels are between 10 and 100 mg/L it might suggest that an underlying condition or serious infection is present and some further tests may need to be carried out [3].
See also: 10 Simple Tips For a Healthy Heart
How Can You Check Your CRP Levels?
One of the most reliable ways to know more about your CRP levels is by taking a test. This can be done by taking a trip to your doctor or with an at-home lab test.
LetsGetChecked’s CRP Test works by identifying inflammation in your body with online results available within 2-5 days. Our expert medical team is available to answer any questions you may have throughout the process.
You should consider taking a test if:
- You are at risk for Crohn's disease
- You are at risk for bowel disorders
- You are overweight
- You require a risk assessment for cardiovascular diseases
- You require a risk assessment for cancers
References
