Fibromyalgia: Can it cause elevated ESR and CRP levels?

I have fibromyalgia. Whenever my rheumatologist does blood tests, I'm told that I have elevated ESR and CRP levels. What's the significance of these test results?

- No name / No state given

Answer

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in the muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as fatigue and multiple tender points throughout the body. In fibromyalgia, lab tests are typically normal.

An elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or a high level of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood may indicate inflammation somewhere in your body. However, it's not likely related to your fibromyalgia, since fibromyalgia isn't an inflammatory condition.

Instead, various conditions can cause elevated ESR and CRP levels, including:

• Infection
• Trauma
• Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
• Periodontal disease
• Cardiovascular disease
• Kidney failure
• Cancer

You also might have elevated ESR and CRP levels if you:

• Are overweight
• Smoke
• Are in poor physical shape or have low levels of physical activity
• Have diabetes or high blood pressure
• Are depressed
• Are elderly
• Have trouble sleeping

Sometimes, what you eat may lead to a minor increase in CRP level, such as a high-protein or low-fiber diet, or low intake of fruits and vegetables.

To better understand the clinical significance of your elevated ESR and CRP levels, consult your doctor.

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