C-reactive protein is a substance that is produced by the liver. The concentration and quantity of this substance need to be monitored since excess of this protein can cause significant health issues like heart attack and other diseases. This is why people prefer getting a C-reactive protein (CRP) test done to make sure there are no complications in their bodies.
What is C-reactive protein?
C-reactive protein is a protein found in the blood plasma and is produced by the liver. The high concentration of such proteins in the blood is caused as a response to significant inflammations. Therefore, the level of these proteins needs to be always maintained. High CRP in the blood can result in serious health diseases like infections, injuries, and chronic issues as well.
To keep the levels of these C-reactive proteins in check, the C-reactive protein test or a CRP test is performed.
What is a C-reactive protein test?
A C-reactive protein test is done by many to keep the levels of these proteins in check. Since this protein is produced as a response to any inflammation in your body, this test helps you notice any internal inflammation that your body is suffering from. This test will give you a clear view of the level of the protein present in your body based on how severe the inflammation is. There is no prior preparation needed for this test. Only a sample of your blood is required to be examined.
This is an important test that will help you figure out the reason behind the inflammation in your body. The issues that are highlighted in this test are mentioned below:
● Various bacterial and fungal infections are identified in this test. These infections need to be monitored before they become severe and have a significant and fatal impact on your health.
● Swelling and bleeding in the intestines can also be detected. This is a bowel disease that needs to be treated at the earliest.
● Various autoimmune diseases are identified as well, such as arthritis and lupus.
● Osteomyelitis is an infection in the bone that also is detected in this test and needs to be cured urgently.
These are the main issues that are identified when a CRP test is done. Such problems cause a major inflammation that in turn increases the levels of CRP in the body. This is why getting a test done is very important. Although, the need for getting a CRP test may not be very clear since there are no major symptoms visible at the beginning.
Some evident signs that may hint at getting tested are due to bacterial infections faced by your body. The symptoms of such an issue are listed below:
● Increased heart rate can be one of the reasons for getting tested.
● Fever and chills experienced by your body
● Vomiting and feeling sick very often
● Rapid breathing or difficulty experienced while breathing
These are some of the basic symptoms that you may experience while facing a high level of CRP. This is when you are expected to get a test done. The results of this test are accurate and help you in taking better care of yourself. Therefore, you need to have a basic idea of what to expect in that test result.
What does the C-reactive protein test result mean, and how is it read?
When you get your C-reactive protein levels checked, the result obtained can tell you if you have a high, low, or normal level present in your body. These levels help you in understanding your health better and taking necessary precautions and treatments if required. The result comes in a few days after getting tested.
The normal level of CRP present in your system is usually less than 10 mg/l, and a higher level of this protein in your body can be equal to or greater than 10 mg/l. These levels give you a clear picture of the inflammation present inside your body. A high CRP value can result in an acute inflammation that needs immediate treatment to prevent any fatal effects.
However, sometimes the test results may not be very accurate depending on the chosen lab for your services. This is why you need to select a trusted and reputed lab to have this test done. Also, make sure the people working on your test results are experienced and have profound knowledge on this topic.
If you are facing any difficulties and are dealing with any of the symptoms mentioned above, then getting this test done is highly recommended. This test will help you prevent and solve any underlying issues faced by your body that you have no idea about. Get rid of these issues at the earliest by getting tested.
