I understand that inflammation is a big problem for Lyme patients.
However, it seems that the type of inflammation experienced by those with Lyme doesn't usually show up on routine blood work.
(I'm basing that last statement on the many personal accounts I've read here and elsewhere.)
For me, I consistently have elevated c-reactive protein and an elevated SED rate. Note super-high, but out of laboratory ranges for "normal."
I've been treating Lyme & Co. for over 2 years and am improved, but still symptomatic.
Should I worry about my inflammation markers always being high, or should I just accept it as part of the disease?
My LLMD often comments that these signs of inflammation show that my body is still fighting the infections, but doesn't seem alarmed.
I worry that this chronic systemic inflammation could cause other health problems if it goes on unchecked.
I was wondering if others have gone through similar problems and if so, were there negative consequences, or will the inflammation clear out on its own as I recover?
Thanks.
Posts: 455 | From Was in PA, then MD, now in the Midwest | Registered: Nov 2008
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The crp test that was done was the "high sensitivity CRP."
The result was 5.4 mg/L. According to the lab, anything over 3 mg/L places one in the "high risk for cardiac disease" category.
I'm 31, my cholesterol and bp are good. When not Herxing, I'm well enough to, and do, cardio workouts 3 times a week. I am however obese. My LLMD did not express concern over my heart health in light of this finding.
Like I state in the original post, in addition to CRP or HS-CRP, my SED rate has also been high (like 30's and 40's, never "off the charts) and I don't know if this is typical for a Lyme patient or if it is reason for extra concern.
Sorry it took me so long to come back to this post, I went into a bad Herx and am just coming out of it. I hope this post attracts more responses/ideas the 2nd time around.
Thanks
Posts: 455 | From Was in PA, then MD, now in the Midwest | Registered: Nov 2008
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Carol in PA
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 5338
posted
There are some things you can do to reduce the bodywide inflammation.
Systemic enzymes, for one. Irvingia, which is supposed to reduce the CRP. Antioxidants.
Carol
Posts: 6956 | From Lancaster, PA | Registered: Feb 2004
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merrygirl
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 12041
posted
I also have.hugh crp and sed rates. my docs just use that as a sign of continued infection. Thats what i got out of it. Nothing has made it go down
Posts: 3905 | From USA | Registered: May 2007
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IckyTicky
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 21466
posted
When I first saw my LLMD my CRP was SKY high! I'm talking highest he'd ever seen! It remained high, and then borderline high for 3 years. Now it is normal
-------------------- IGM: 18+, 23+, 30+, 31+++, 34+, 39IND, 41++, 58+++, 66+, 83-93IND IGG: 31+, 39IND, 41+ Also positive for Mycoplasma Pneumoniae and RMSF. Whole family of 5 dx with Lyme. Posts: 1014 | From Texas | Registered: Jul 2009
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