HsCRP Test - Price, Purpose, Preparation, Range - 2024

Table of Content

Introduction to the HsCRP Test

HsCRP, or high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, is a marker of inflammation in the body. It helps to assess the risk of several cardiovascular diseases like myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral vascular disease, and sudden cardiac death. The HsCRP test is a simple blood test that measures the low levels of inflammation. The high HsCRP levels indicate inflammation, even when you feel no symptoms. While symptoms like fever, fatigue, or joint pain could accompany high HsCRP, it often remains silent, making the test crucial for preventive care—factors like obesity, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and lifestyle factors. Your doctor may recommend the HsCRP blood test for people to assess the risk of heart diseases with high cholesterol levels. Doctors typically recommend the HsCRP lab test for individuals at moderate risk of heart disease, even with normal cholesterol levels. It may be used in combination with other tests, such as a lipid panel, or with other cardiac risk markers,

By keeping an eye on HsCRP, you and your doctor can proactively manage inflammation and take steps to minimize your risk of future health complications. Take the HsCRP test from Redcliffe Labs to monitor your heart-related risks. Choose us as your trusted healthcare partner to get the HsCRP test. Book your appointment online, and the phlebotomist will come to your place for a sample collection. With us, you will get the best diagnostic services at affordable prices.

Test details in brief

Purpose of the HsCRP Test

The HsCRP test is a cardiac risk marker and helpful in preventive healthcare. Here are a few objectives of the HsCRP test.

• Evaluating Cardiovascular Risk- The test predicts future cardiovascular risks like heart attack and stroke, even in people with normal cholesterol levels.
• Monitoring Inflammatory Conditions- HsCRP levels can elevate due to various inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease. The test helps to monitor the efficacy of treatment for these conditions by tracking changes in inflammation levels. This allows your doctor to adjust medications or treatment strategies for optimal management.

What does the HsCRP test measure?

The HscRP test measures the levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in your blood. The liver produces this protein, which causes inflammation. The HsCRP lab test assesses the risk of heart attack or stroke risk, even in people with normal cholesterol levels. The test also detects inflammation conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease. The low-level inflammation can also cause atherosclerosis, a condition in which blood vessels narrow due to the build-up of cholesterol and other lipids, and may cause cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The HscRP blood test can track the inflammation before causing the symptoms of chronic diseases to prevent disease progression. The normal hsCRP level is less than 1.0 mg/L. Always consult your doctor to interpret your results in context and discuss the next steps if necessary.

Preparation for the HsCRP test

No such preparation is needed before the HsCRP test. You need to follow the below instructions-

• No fasting required-  The HsCRP test doesn't require fasting. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
• Consult your doctor- Some medications can interfere with your test results. However, inform your doctor about any medications and supplements you're taking. If you've recently recovered from surgery or acute infection, mention them to your doctor before the test. 
• Hydration- Stay hydrated to ensure smooth blood draw.

The procedure of the HsCRP test

The HsCRP test is a simple blood test. During the process, the phlebotomist will ask you to draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. He will tie a tourniquet or band on your arm and will clean the arm area with an antiseptic solution. After that, he will insert a small needle into the vein to collect the blood sample. After collecting the blood sample, the needle will be removed, and the puncture site will be covered with a bandage. You might feel slight discomfort during the process, but this will get normal soon. The sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis, and test reports will be provided in a few hours. 

What do the HsCRP test reports indicate?

The HsCRP test reports will be provided within 15 hours. Consult your test reports with your doctor. The test reports will show the following interpretations-

• Normal Level- The normal range of HsCRP levels is lower than 1.0 mg/L, which means no risk of Cardiovascular diseases and a low risk for inflammation-related conditions. 
• Moderate Level- Higher than 1.0 to 3.0 mg/L indicates a moderate risk of CVD and mild inflammation due to infections like bronchitis or pneumonia, autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, dental problems, metabolic syndrome, and cancers. 
• High Level- The range higher than 3.0 mg/L indicates a high risk of CVD, including heart attack, stroke, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 

HsCRP levels can fluctuate even in healthy people due to stress, exercise, and sleep. Your doctor will consider your medical history, family history, and other risk factors for proper diagnosis. However, monitoring HsCRP levels over time can help track management and manage certain conditions.

Who is at risk of Heart Disease? 

Many people are at high risk of heart disease due to certain risk factors. The hsCRP lab test is a preventive checkup to assess the risk of heart issues, and people with a high risk must take the test. Here are some risk factors:

Risk factors

• Age- The risk of heart disease increases in males and females. 
• Gender-  Men are at higher risk than women of heart issues.
• Genetic Factors- If you have a close family member with heart disease, it significantly increases your risk.

People with certain health conditions like-

• High blood pressure
• High Cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Have unhealthy lifestyle
• Physical inactivity
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Stress and depression
• Alcohol abuse
• Autoimmune diseases
• Chronic kidney disorders

If you have any concerns related to your heart disease risk, consult your doctor. They can assess your risk factors and provide personalized recommendations to help you protect your heart health.

Complications of High HsCRP Levels

High levels of HsCRP levels could be a sign of various health issues, including- 

• Heart failure
• Stoke
• Heart attack
• Cancer
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Infection
• Lupus
• Tuberculosis
• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
• Autoimmune diseases

The severity of complications depends on various factors like the levels of HsCRP, underlying cause, medical history, and other risk factors. However, early detection and management of high HsCRP, either through lifestyle changes or appropriate medical interventions, can significantly reduce the risk of complications and improve long-term health outcomes.

What are the common symptoms related to abnormal HsCRP tests?

Abnormal HsCRP levels do not mean showing signs or symptoms; they could be asymptomatic for a long time. However, below are some general symptoms associated with high HsCRP levels, but these are not specific- 

• Fatigue or tiredness
• Joint and muscle pain
• Low-grade fever
• Headaches
• Loss of appetite
• Sleep disturbances
• Sudden weight loss

What are the risks of the HsCRP blood test? 

The HsCRP blood test has no or minimal risks. It's a safe and routine procedure with negligible complications. However, here are some potential aspects to consider:

• Minimal pain and discomfort during sample collection. 
• Fainting and bruising
• Haematoma 
• Risk of Infection
• Multiple puncture sites

HsCRP Test price at Redcliffe Labs

The HsCRP test price starts at Rs 699 and goes up to Rs 800 at Redcliffe Labs. Book your test online with Redcliffe Labs for the best discounts and offers. With us, you do not need to travel to a lab, as we offer a convenient home sample collection. Our phlebotomist will reach you on time at your location. You can book tests and access reports through their user-friendly website or app. You can also avail of the best discounts and offers on our wide range of diagnostic tests. Also, you don't need to worry about the quality results; our labs are NABL and ISO-certified, ensuring high standards of quality and accuracy. So, what are you still waiting for? Book your High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein test now!

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HsCRP Blood Test Matters for Your Preventive Health

Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection. But chronic, low-grade inflammation, if you remain undetected, can increase your risk for serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and even Alzheimer's. This is where the HsCRP blood test comes in importance. By including the HsCRP test in your regular preventive health checkups, you can detect the early warning signs of cardiovascular diseases. Various factors like stress, smoking, and obesity can influence HsCRP levels. Tracking your HsCRP over time can give your doctor a clearer picture of your overall health and potential health risks. Take a regular HsCRP Level test and consult your C reactive protein Hs test reports with your doctor. A healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management remain the cornerstones of preventive health.