The liver releases small amounts of C-reactive protein (CRP) to fight infections and inflammation.
However, high C-reactive protein levels indicate significant inflammation brought on by a health condition.
Levels at or above 10 milligrams of protein per deciliter of blood (10 mg/dL) are considered high.
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High C-reactive protein signals many possible conditions.
What Does a High CRP Level Mean?
A high CRP level means that you have mild to severe inflammation in your body.
YourCRP test scorereflects the extent of the inflammation but not its underlying cause.
CRP is produced by your liver in response to immune system activity.
The immune system sends white blood cells (WBC) to fight inflammation.
Increased WBC activity triggers the release of CRP.
Providers also use CRP to monitor your health after youre diagnosed with a chronic disease or following surgery.
What CRP Level Is Dangerously High?
How Long Levels Stay High
How long CRP levels stay high matters.
Is High CRP Related to COVID?
Your healthcare provider will determine the best treatment based on the cause of your elevated CRP levels.
However, high CRP levels are a sign that your health will likely benefit from lifestyle changes.
Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk factors and how to prevent disease and lower CRP.
Statins
Statinsare drugs that lower cholesterol.
Does Aspirin Help?
People with high CRP may benefit from aspirin therapy more than people with normal CRP levels.
Aspirin therapy is not safe and effective for everyone.
Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking low-dose aspirin for daily therapy.
Summary
High CRP levels mean you have inflammation in your body.
High CRP is a major indicator of your heart disease risk.
You may be able to lower mildly elevated CRP levels with lifestyle changes.
However, many people may need medication to treat the condition and lower their CRP.
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