CRP - what does it all mean

berkshiregirl

Hi,

I have a fairly new diagnosis of RA and the rheumatologist is still not 100% about what variety of RA I have. She sent a letter to my GP recently (copy to me) indicating that my CRP is 96. Should I be worried about this? Until three months ago I belonged to a running club and attended aerobics twice a week so this prolonged absence from exercise is also worrying me. My medication had to be changed and I am now on Methotrexate as the previous drug caused me liver problems. Should I see my GP or the rheumatologist to try and find out what theCRP means? :roll:

scattered

CRP stands for c-reactive protein level. It's an inflammation marker found in your blood. 96 is quite high. It just means that you have high levels of inflammation. As the MTX starts to work, it should drop.

helpline_team

Thanks Scattered and Scottishlass - I couldn't have answered it better myself !
Berkshiregirl, next time you see one of your doctors check how much exercise you should be doing and whether running and aerobics are still appropriate. They can always refer you to a physio therapist for advice.
Best wishes
Val

berkshiregirl

scattered wrote:

CRP stands for c-reactive protein level. It's an inflammation marker found in your blood. 96 is quite high. It just means that you have high levels of inflammation. As the MTX starts to work, it should drop.

Thks scattered - this was helpful.

berkshiregirl

Scottishlass, your answer was also helpful. Here in Berkshire we have monthly blood tests and no card or information.

I will be speaking to the blood nurse later this week and ask her about a card etc.

berkshiregirl

helpline_team wrote:

Thanks Scattered and Scottishlass - I couldn't have answered it better myself !
Berkshiregirl, next time you see one of your doctors check how much exercise you should be doing and whether running and aerobics are still appropriate. They can always refer you to a physio therapist for advice.
Best wishes
Val

Thanks Val, the fact is that with a dodgy foot, elbows and hands neither of those activities are appropriate!! I am not too sure who can refer me to a physio but I will mention it at my next appointment. Perhaps doctors and specialists should also read these messages and they would be in a better position to understand how people feel.

helpline_team

Physio referrals are usually done through the GP but sometimes the rheumatology clinic will do it. It's probably quicker via your GP.
Best wishes
Val