Probing for Inflammation in the Body

Inflammation is a multiplex cellular response that occurs when the immune system identifies and responds to harmful stimuli—such as damaged cells, pathogens, or irritants. It is an imperative mechanism in the body’s defense system and plays a crucial role in fighting infections and promoting healing. When the immune system detects an invasion, it produces various molecules, inter alia, pro-inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. These cytokines recruit immune cells to the site of inflammation and trigger the inflammatory response.

Chronic inflammation has been implicated in several non-communicable diseases like hypertension, cancer, peptic ulcer among others.

How Does One Know They Have High Inflammation?

Apart from physical signs and symptoms like pain and redness, systemic inflammation can be ascertained by laboratory investigation—with two (2) routine tests. The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) & the C-reactive protein (CRP) assays.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate is a non-specific preliminary test that can indicate high systemic inflammation. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), also known as sedimentation or sed rate, is a blood test that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a tube of blood over a given period. The ESR is a nonspecific test that is often used as a marker of inflammation in the body.

During the ESR test, a blood sample is collected and placed in an upright tube. The red blood cells gradually settle to the bottom of the tube, leaving the clear liquid (plasma) above. The distance the red blood cells settle in one hour is measured and reported as the ESR. For a normal individual, ESR reading should be 3 to 5 mm fall per hour.

The ESR is a relatively simple and inexpensive test that can provide valuable information in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions. It is often used to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as infections, autoimmune diseases, certain cancers, and rheumatic diseases.

It is imperative to note that the ESR is not a specific diagnostic test and cannot be used to diagnose a specific condition on its own. It is usually interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and tests to make an accurate diagnosis.

On the other hand, a more specific assay for inflammation is the C-reactive protein test. The C-reactive protein (CRP) test is a blood test that measures the level of C-reactive protein in your blood. CRP is a substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to various injuries, infections, or chronic diseases. The CRP test is commonly used as a marker of inflammation and can help doctors assess the presence and severity of inflammation in the body.For a normal individual, a CRP reading should be below 6mg per liter.

 It’s important to note that while the CRP test is a valuable tool in assessing inflammation, it is not specific to any particular disease. High CRP levels may indicate a problem, but further investigation is needed to determine the cause. Additionally, other factors such as recent surgery or injury can also cause temporary increases in CRP levels. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough interpretation of your test results and appropriate follow-up actions.

By Dynasty Health LLC:

Dynasty Health is a nutrition-based company located in the capital city of Ghana. We aim to harness the medicinal properties of food (nutraceuticals) and prevent all forms of chronic diseases using food (preventive medicine). Book a flexible health session with us: +233558343127 or https://tinyurl.com/dynastyhealth