What Does CRP in Medicine Refer To?

Update Date: 2024-05-23 Source: Network

When people feel some discomfort in their bodies, they will go to the hospital for some corresponding basic examinations, and judge the patient's condition based on the results and clinical symptoms. Sometimes, when seeing elevated CRP levels, people may wonder: What does CRP mean in medicine? CRP is the abbreviation for C-reactive protein. When the human body is under stress or in the acute phase of a disease, CRP levels may rise, indicating a need to promptly assess the infection status. A few patients may also have elevated CRP levels after intense exercise, so it is important to make distinctions.

1. The significance of CRP

CRP is the abbreviation for C-reactive protein, also known as acute-phase reactant protein. CRP levels may rise when patients are in the acute phase of a disease or under stress. CRP is usually checked together with a blood test. If CRP levels rise above 50 and there is an increase in white blood cell count and neutrophil count in the blood test, it suggests bacterial infection. If CRP levels rise but do not exceed 20, and the white blood cell count is normal while the lymphocyte count is elevated, it is more likely to indicate viral infection. Some individuals may also have elevated CRP levels due to stress such as intense exercise.

2. What to do when CRP levels rise

Generally, a slight elevation in CRP levels is not a major concern, and it may indicate inflammation due to bacterial infection. CRP is a commonly used indicator to measure the degree of inflammation. Elevated CRP levels suggest that the inflammation has not been fully controlled, and as the inflammation resolves, the CRP levels will return to normal. Conditions such as bacterial infections and traumatic inflammation in the body can cause changes in CRP levels. It is necessary to use sensitive antibiotics specific to the bacterial type to reduce CRP levels. Once the inflammation is resolved, CRP levels will return to normal.

3. Attention to care

A healthy body is the foundation for everything, so it is important to take good care of oneself in daily life. It is essential to eat regularly, avoid skipping meals, and maintain a balanced diet to ensure comprehensive nutrition intake. Adequate rest and a good sleep are also crucial. During free time, appropriate physical exercise can help improve one's physical condition and reduce the occurrence of diseases.