Highly sensitive CRP can measure the chronic low-grade inflammation that plays a role in risk assessment for future cardiovascular disease. The assessment of high-sensitivity CRP is different from the assessment of "regular CRP" (rapid sink) which is used to assess infection or inflammation.
Testing your hs-CRP levels can be like getting a sneak peek into your body�۪s silent battles. It�۪s particularly recommended if you have risk factors for heart disease but no current symptoms, or if you�۪re gauging the effectiveness of treatment for inflammatory diseases. Elevated hs-CRP levels can indicate increased risk for heart attacks and strokes, helping guide lifestyle changes or medical interventions to lower these risks.
Various factors can elevate hs-CRP levels, including infections, chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, obesity, smoking, lack of physical activity, and poor diet. Even stress can increase inflammation, reflecting on your hs-CRP levels.
Managing and improving your hs-CRP levels often involves lifestyle adjustments aimed at reducing inflammation. This includes eating anti-inflammatory foods (think rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids), maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking. For those with high levels, further medical evaluation may be necessary to identify and treat any underlying conditions contributing to the inflammation.
Managing and improving your hs-CRP levels often involves lifestyle adjustments aimed at reducing inflammation. This includes eating anti-inflammatory foods (think rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids), maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking. For those with high levels, further medical evaluation may be necessary to identify and treat any underlying conditions contributing to the inflammation.