If you have an autoimmune disorder, then you know aside from daily symptoms, bloodwork is the best route to monitor the progress/status of your disease. Having bloodwork is essential towards keeping an eye on inflammation. Inflammation lies at the heart of autoimmune diseases, which occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. With that reason, many with chronic illnesses want to keep their inflammation as low as possible. Afterall the more inflammation we have, the more we feel our symptoms. Here are 5 useful Inflammatory markers that everyone should know, especially if you have rheumatoid arthritis.
1) C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
C-Reactive Protein is one of the most commonly measured inflammatory markers. It is produced by the liver in response to inflammation, infection, or tissue damage. Elevated levels of CRP indicate the presence of inflammation in the body. In autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease, CRP levels are often increased during disease flares. Regular monitoring of CRP levels can help assess disease activity and response to treatment.
2) Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a tube of blood. Increased sedimentation rate indicates the presence of inflammation in the body. While ESR is a nonspecific marker and can be elevated in various conditions, including infections and cancer, it is commonly elevated in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and giant cell arteritis. Monitoring ESR alongside other clinical indicators can provide valuable information about disease activity.
3) Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA)
Antinuclear Antibodies are antibodies that target the body’s own cell nuclei. These antibodies are often present in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, and systemic sclerosis. ANA testing is used as a screening tool to help diagnose autoimmune disorders. A positive ANA test indicates the need for further investigation into the possibility of an autoimmune condition. However, it’s important to note that a positive ANA test does not necessarily mean that an individual has an autoimmune disease, as ANA can also be elevated in healthy individuals or other non-autoimmune conditions.
4) Rheumatoid Factor (RF)
Rheumatoid Factor is an antibody that targets the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G (IgG). Elevated levels of RF are commonly found in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis but can also be present in other autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus. RF testing is often used alongside other clinical and laboratory assessments to help diagnose and monitor autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
5) Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (anti-CCP) Antibodies
Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide antibodies are specific markers associated with rheumatoid arthritis. These antibodies target peptides that have been modified by citrullination, a process involved in inflammation and tissue damage. Anti-CCP antibodies are highly specific for rheumatoid arthritis and are often detected in the early stages of the disease, even before symptoms appear. Testing for anti-CCP antibodies can aid in the early diagnosis and management of rheumatoid arthritis.
Monitoring Disease Activity
Now that you have a base for tracking your inflammation, it’s important that you remain up to date with your bloodwork! Knowing what to look for and keeping track of improvements or worsening levels can help you take control of your health. Health is a journey is which we continue to improve and learn about the things that can help our bodies. It’s important to keep track of new your symptoms and relay them to your health providers. Feel empowered by your health today!
Common Questions and Answers
1) How do different diets impact inflammatory markers, and to what extent do they influence them?
Various diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, vegetarianism, and ketogenic diet, have been associated with changes in inflammatory markers. For instance, the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil, has been linked to lower levels of inflammatory markers such as CRP and ESR.
See Related: Recipes to Support Chronic Illness
2) What lifestyle activities are effective in reducing inflammatory markers?
Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking are lifestyle factors known to help reduce inflammation. Exercise, in particular, has been shown to lower levels of inflammatory markers such as CRP and IL-6.
3) How does mindfulness and stress management contribute to reducing inflammation?
Mindfulness practices and stress management techniques help regulate the body’s stress response and reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol, which can trigger inflammation when chronically elevated. Studies have shown that mindfulness meditation and other relaxation techniques can lower levels of inflammatory markers such as CRP and IL-6, thereby mitigating the inflammatory response in the body.
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sources:
RA and Anti-CCP: What is the Purpose of an Anti-CCP Test? - RheumatoidArthritis.org, Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) (rheumatology.org), C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test: High vs. Low Levels, Normal Range (webmd.com), Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): MedlinePlus Medical Test,
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