Can high lipoprotein and hs-CRP cause cardiac problems?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had a high hs-CRP of 3.86 around 8 months back. I have got it rechecked and it has gone even higher to 5.36. I have attached the reports of blood tests done a couple of days back. This blood test report includes other tests too apart from hs-CRP. I have previously been advised that high lipoprotein and hs-CRP can cause cardio-related issues. How do I get the hs-CRP back into range? And do I need to go for further checkups to find the actual cause of inflammation? I have no other medical condition except lower back pain. Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern regarding the raised hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) and lipoprotein levels (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

These biomarkers are predictors of future events. They tell you that there is an inflammatory state that is going on and that will contribute to your blood vessels to the heart and brain possibly getting blocked. So, you need to take steps to prevent a heart attack in the future. They have done a study called JUPITER (Justification for the Use of Statins in Prevention : an Intervention Trial Evaluating Rosuvastatin) where they used an anti-cholesterol medicine called Rosuvastatin 20 mg for patients like you with a raised CRP and normal cholesterol levels. They have found it causes a 50% reduction in future heart attacks.

You may benefit by taking tablet Rosuvas (Rosuvastatin) or Rozat 10 mg once daily for at least 2 years. This will prevent heart attacks, stroke and bring down your hs-CRP levels. But you need to also know that there is a very small risk of new onset diabetes for patients taking this drug. Second you need to change your lifestyle. You need to lose weight. Just going on medications is not the answer to these diseases. You need to get yourself a personal trainer in a gym and work with him to lose weight. You may also consult a dietitian to reduce your calories. Is there any family history of heart disease? If you smoke, you need to quit smoking at the earliest.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is a generalized state if there is inflammation in your body, rather than a specific infection, that is causing the raised hs-CRP. So, you do not need to undertake further tests unless you develop new symptoms. Drinking in strict moderation is fine. You may recheck the hs-CRP three months after starting the medicine that I suggested. Hand numbness is unrelated to the hs-CRP; it may be due to overweight or due to you sleeping with your hand placed under your head causing compression at the wrist.