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What could be the cause of raised ESR and CRP levels?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have lost all my teeth except the front teeth. Sixteen years back, I had swelling and pains in all the joints, and I was diagnosed with an increased CRP (10.2 mg/L) and ESR (40.2 mm/h) rate. So, I took two years of treatment in a nearby government hospital. Later, I changed my lifestyle and started exercising regularly. As a result, I do not have any joint pain, and I am normal in my routine life. So, I stopped the medication in the last five years. By this year, my CRP rate is 20.8 mg/L, and my ESR rate is 80 mm/h and is gradually increasing. I do not know what to do further and whom to consult. Kindly suggest.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Zohaib

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Muhammad Zohaib Siddiq is a skilled cardiologist with 13 years of clinical experience. He specializes in diagnosing and treating heart disorders, including congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, and electrophysiology, providing comprehensive care for cardiovascular health.      

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Raised ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein) are nonspecific markers of inflammation. These signify inflammation or infection somewhere in the body. ESR also rises in those taking steroids for joint pains or asthma. A better assessment can be done if you can answer the following questions. Do you still have joint pains? Do you take steroids? Do you have a fever or cough? What is the white blood cell count in complete blood count (CBC)?

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

I do not have joint pain, fever, or cough and am not taking any medicine. Also, I do not know my complete blood count.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Zohaib

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Muhammad Zohaib Siddiq is a skilled cardiologist with 13 years of clinical experience. He specializes in diagnosing and treating heart disorders, including congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, and electrophysiology, providing comprehensive care for cardiovascular health.      

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Fine, do not worry. Even anemia can raise ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate). I suggest you get a complete blood count. If it is normal and you do not have any symptoms, you do not need any treatment.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At July 23, 2022
Reviewed At June 8, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Muhammad Zohaib Siddiq is a skilled cardiologist with 13 years of clinical experience. He specializes in diagnosing and treating heart disorders, including congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, and electrophysiology, providing comprehensive care for cardiovascular health.      

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Muhammad Zohaib Siddiq is a skilled cardiologist with 13 years of clinical experience. He specializes in diagnosing and treating heart disorders, including congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, and electrophysiology, providing comprehensive care for cardiovascular health.      

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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