f you’ve recently had a blood test and it indicates high CRP, it can be a cause for concern. C–reactive protein (CRP) is a substance that the liver makes and is a marker for body inflammation.
High levels of CRP, also known as hs-CRP or us-CRP, are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack & stroke.
But this doesn’t end here. Elevated CRP levels can signal various inflammatory conditions, infections, and cancer too.
In some cases, high CRP levels can indicate the development of Type 2 diabetes.
In this blog, we will cover what causes high CRP levels, their association with different health conditions, and suitable doctors to consult.
Doctors to Consult for High CRP Levels
Here are some specialists who can help diagnose and manage high CRP levels effectively.
1. Rheumatologists
Rheumatologists diagnose and treat joint, muscle, and bone conditions. They evaluate and manage chronic inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or vasculitis, which can cause elevated CRP levels.
2. Cardiologists
High CRP levels indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack or stroke. Consulting a cardiologist can help assess your cardiovascular health and develop a treatment plan to lower CRP levels.
3. Infectious Disease Specialist
Certain infections can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, leading to increased CRP levels. An infectious disease specialist can identify and treat illnesses like bacterial endocarditis or chronic viral infections that may contribute to elevated CRP levels.
Causes of High CRP
The possible causes of increased CRP levels, or risk factors, are more often than not associated with other heart disease-related risk factors, including:
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Metabolic syndrome
- Diabetes
Should You Visit a Doctor for High CRP Levels?
If you have received blood test results indicating high levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), here are some reasons why consulting a doctor would be the best choice.
1. Further Evaluation
This includes assessing your medical history, performing a physical examination, and ordering additional tests or screenings.
2. Diagnosis
A doctor recommends proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment for any underlying inflammatory or systemic diseases.
4. Monitoring Chronic Conditions
For pre-existing inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, regular monitoring of CRP levels is required to keep them in control. A doctor can help manage these chronic conditions effectively.
Treatment Options
Treatment for high CRP differs according to every patient and situation. Here are some common treatment options suggested by doctors.
1. Lifestyle Modifications
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce inflammation and lower CRP levels. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, weight management, smoking cessation, and stress reduction techniques.
2. Medications
Your doctor may suggest corticosteroids, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or immunosuppressants, depending on the underlying condition.
3. Targeted Therapy
In cases of autoimmune diseases or rheumatoid arthritis, targeted therapies such as biologic agents may be prescribed. These medications target the underlying inflammatory processes and can help control CRP levels.
4. Management of Underlying Conditions
If high CRP levels are associated with cardiovascular diseases or metabolic disorders, your doctor may recommend medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugar levels, along with lifestyle modifications.
How to Choose the Best Doctor for CRP Treatment?
When choosing the best doctor for CRP treatment, consider the following points.
1. Specialization
Look for doctors who specialize in rheumatology, cardiology, or infectious diseases, as they are well-versed in managing conditions related to elevated CRP levels.
2. Experience
A seasoned practitioner is more likely to have a deeper understanding of the condition and offer effective treatment options.
3. Availability
Consider the doctor’s availability and accessibility. Prompt medical attention and timely follow-up appointments are crucial for managing CRP-related conditions effectively.
Best Doctors Available at Ayu Health
- Our Best General Rheumatologists
- Our Best Cardiologists
Ayu Health: Your Best Choice for CRP Treatment
Treatment options for high CRP depend on individual cases, which is why consulting a well-reputed doctor is key.
At Ayu Health Network of Hospitals, we choose only highly-experienced doctors who are known for their compassionate care, professional treatment, and ethics.
If you’d like to book an appointment with us, call +91 6366-100-800, or visit our website to learn more.
FAQs
How Do Doctors Treat High CRP Levels?
Treatment for high CRP levels depends on the underlying cause. Doctors may address the root cause of inflammation, prescribe medications to manage inflammation and recommend lifestyle changes.
What Happens if Your CRP is Very High?
If CRP levels are significantly elevated, it may indicate a more severe inflammatory condition. Doctors will conduct further tests to determine underlying causes and develop a treatment plan accordingly.
How Long Does CRP Stay High?
The duration of elevated CRP levels varies depending on the underlying cause. Once the underlying condition is treated effectively, CRP levels typically decrease. However, the timeline for normalization can differ from person to person.
What Should I Avoid if My CRP is High?
To help manage high CRP levels, it is generally recommended to avoid smoking, limit alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, and adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Also Read : What Doctor Should You Consult for Chest Pain?
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References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4525013/
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/214921
https://ayu.health/blog/orthopaedics-vs-rheumatology/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5471098/
About the Author
Dr. Magesh Balakrishnan
Dr. Magesh Balakrishnan is a renowned cardiologist currently practicing at Ayu Health, Bangalore.
He has 16 years of experience in this field. He has excellent skills in performing all cardiac diagnostic procedures/ tests. He has performed emergency and elective angiographies and angioplasties, device implantation (Pacemaker, AICD & CRT)