Health Guide

What is C-Reactive Protein? What Causes High CRP Levels?

C-Reactive protein, or CRP for short, is a type of protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation occurring anywhere in the body. When any agent, such as a virus, bacteria, fungus, parasite, or toxic chemicals, enters the body or after an injury, the immune system is directly activated, and immune cells are produced to be sent to the affected area.

In addition, the synthesis of C-Reactive protein in the liver increases, leading to local symptoms like pain, swelling, and redness. Under normal circumstances, the CRP level in the blood of healthy individuals is quite low. However, during any inflammation, the CRP level begins to rise in direct proportion to the severity of the inflammation.

Mild increases in CRP levels in the blood may be due to simple infections that do not cause any symptoms. However, significant and severe elevations in C-Reactive protein levels may indicate serious inflammation, necessitating further investigation.

What is CRP?

In the presence of any inflammation in the body, acute phase reactants in the blood increase, triggering an immune response. One of these protein-based molecules that trigger an inflammatory acute phase response is C-Reactive protein. Known as CRP, this protein increases by at least 25% during an inflammatory condition in the body.

The more severe the inflammation, the higher the CRP level, which is accompanied by symptoms such as swelling, redness, and pain in the affected area. High levels of LDL, also known as bad cholesterol, can also lead to the formation of an acute phase response, resulting in elevated CRP and inflammation.

A variation of the CRP test, called high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP), is used to assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases and heart attacks. Apart from infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, high CRP levels can also be seen in autoimmune diseases, characterized by the body's immune response against its tissues, as well as in many chronic and systemic diseases.

When a health screening is performed due to suspicion of any disease or infection, a CRP test is usually included. A significantly elevated CRP level indicates the presence of inflammation in the body. In such cases, further diagnostic tests are conducted to determine the location and cause of the inflammation. Once the underlying health issue is identified and treated, the CRP level can be brought back to a normal range as the inflammation decreases.

If the inflammation is caused by an infection, antibiotics, antiviral, or antifungal medications can be used to eliminate it. In autoimmune diseases, medications that suppress the immune response can control inflammation, thereby balancing CRP levels.

Monitoring the decrease in CRP levels regularly helps evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment plan for inflammation. For example, in antibiotic treatment for an infection, examining whether there is a sufficient decrease in CRP levels can help determine if the medication is effectively addressing the infection. Because of these features, the C-Reactive protein test is one of the most commonly used blood tests in medicine.

What Should the CRP Level Be?

A simple blood test is sufficient to determine the CRP level. A blood sample can be taken from any vein in the body and tested in a laboratory to measure the CRP level easily. No preparation or special equipment is needed for the test. Unlike other values, fasting or being full is not required for this test, meaning it can be conducted at any time of the day.

However, since CRP is often measured along with other blood values, a fasting blood sample may be requested to allow accurate measurement of those other values. Although laboratory criteria may vary, the normal range of C-Reactive protein in the blood is generally expected to be below 1.0 mg/L.

This indicates that the CRP level in the blood of healthy individuals is very low, and any increase is easily noticeable. A CRP level below this threshold suggests that there is no significant inflammation in the body. CRP levels above 1.0 mg/dL indicate an inflammatory condition and require further diagnostic tests.

Mild elevations in CRP are generally not a cause for concern, as they can result from minor inflammations. If such an elevation is detected, additional investigations may be conducted, or follow-up with a repeat blood test may be suggested, considering the patient's medical history.

In pregnant women and individuals with chronic diseases, even mild elevations in CRP should be taken seriously. In recent years, especially in studies conducted in the United States, it has been proven that patients with elevated CRP levels have a two to three times higher risk of experiencing a heart attack.

While the CRP level alone is not sufficient to diagnose a disease, it can be considered along with other blood findings and test results to evaluate heart attack risk and guide preventive treatments. The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) can be assessed using the high-sensitivity hs-CRP level, according to the following scale:

• hs-CRP level below 1.0 mg/dL – Low CVD risk
• hs-CRP level between 1.0 mg/dL and 3.0 mg/dL – Moderate CVD risk
• hs-CRP level above 3.0 mg/dL – High CVD risk

What Causes High CRP Levels?

High CRP levels indicate inflammation in the body, which can occur in any area for various reasons. Elevated CRP indicates the presence and intensity of inflammation and is categorized differently based on the value detected in the blood:

CRP levels between 1-1.5 mg/dL are considered mild elevations and can be caused by:

• Obesity
• Smoking
• Minor injuries
• Colds
• Stress and depression
• Gum infections
• Sleep disorders
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy

CRP levels up to 10 mg/dL are considered moderate elevations, with potential causes including:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
• Diseases like bronchitis and pancreatitis

CRP levels above 10 mg/dL are classified as significant elevations and indicate severe inflammation in the body. Some conditions that can cause such high CRP levels include:

• Acute bacterial infections (severe elevations above 50 mg/dL are often due to acute bacterial infections)
• Viral illnesses
• Systemic vasculitis
• Major injuries and trauma

What Causes Low CRP Levels?

For healthy individuals, the normal CRP level in the blood is considered to be 1 mg/dL or lower, so low CRP levels are not an issue. A CRP level close to zero or at zero is considered a healthy state, indicating no medical concerns.

If the CRP level in a blood test was previously higher but is lower in a subsequent test, it shows that the inflammation in the body has decreased. Such decreases in CRP are closely monitored, especially during antibiotic trials for acute bacterial infections, to assess the effectiveness of the medication. Therefore, a drop in C-Reactive protein levels is a desirable outcome.

If you notice that your CRP level is above the normal range in a blood test, consult your doctor for more information. If necessary, your doctor may recommend further diagnostic tests to gain insight into your health condition, allowing early detection of potential illnesses.

by imran

What Helps with Kidney Pain?

The kidneys are vital organs that maintain the body's systems by regulating water and mineral balance. Located in the lower back region, the kidneys are situated on the right and left sides behind the peritoneum. The right kidney is slightly lower than the left due to the presence of the liver. Using filtering units called nephrons, the kidneys remove waste, primarily urea, from the body by excreting it with water. Thus, they play a significant role in the excretory system.

What is Kidney Pain?

Kidney pain is a discomfort felt in the sides of the lower back, abdomen, and back. In some cases, kidney pain can also be felt in the genital areas. It can be caused by physical trauma, infection, or illness. While kidney pain is usually felt on one side of the body, it can occur on both sides in cases of kidney function disorders. Since the kidneys are surrounded by many organs, discomfort or pain from nearby organs can often be mistaken for kidney pain.

Therefore, examinations, tests, and imaging are used to confirm the source of the pain. Given the importance of the kidneys, any observed pain should not be ignored, and medical attention should be sought.

What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Pain?

The primary symptom of kidney pain is discomfort radiating from the sides to the lower back and abdomen. This pain can feel like cramps, spasms, or a stabbing sensation. Often, it is accompanied by fever and nausea. Other symptoms of kidney pain include painful urination, blood in the urine, foul-smelling urine, bowel discomfort, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, and chills.

Since these symptoms can be confused with other illnesses, a doctor’s evaluation is essential to determine whether the pain originates from the kidneys.

What Causes Kidney Pain?

Kidney pain can be caused by infections in the kidneys or surrounding organs, kidney diseases, or physical problems involving the kidneys. Causes related to physical injury or trauma might occur during sports activities such as football or basketball, or due to work accidents.

Pyelonephritis, a kidney infection, is often caused by bacteria from the digestive system. Bacteria traveling to the kidneys via the urinary tract can cause infection and result in kidney pain. One of the most common causes of kidney pain is kidney stones, which form from accumulated salt and mineral deposits in the kidneys. Small stones can be excreted through urine, leading to a painful condition known as "passing stones." Larger kidney stones, however, are more challenging to pass and cause severe kidney pain.

Another formation in the kidneys is kidney cysts, which can be benign or malignant. Small cysts may not cause symptoms, but if they grow and burst, they can lead to infection, kidney pain, and fever. A genetic condition known as polycystic kidney disease can cause cysts to form in both kidneys. If there is damage to the glomeruli, which are the kidneys' filtering units, glomerulonephritis can occur, leading to impaired kidney function. This can result in kidney pain, infrequent urination, high blood pressure, and even kidney failure.

Another condition causing kidney pain is hydronephrosis, where urine accumulates in the kidneys due to a blockage in the urinary tract, causing the kidney to swell. Hydronephrosis, often associated with kidney stones, leads to frequent but small amounts of urination and symptoms like kidney pain, fever, and urinary incontinence.

How Is the Cause of Kidney Pain Diagnosed?

To diagnose the cause of kidney pain, a doctor first conducts a physical examination. After the examination, lab tests are usually requested. A urine test is used to check levels of blood, leukocytes, urea, and protein in the urine. In some cases, urine tests may not provide enough information, and radiological imaging options are considered. Ultrasound or CT scans may be requested to determine if the issue is related to cysts, kidney stones, or other physical damage.

What Helps Relieve Kidney Pain?

Drinking plenty of water is undoubtedly the best remedy for the kidneys. In addition to staying well-hydrated, keeping the feet warm is an essential precaution against kidney pain. There are also various herbal teas and drinks known to relieve kidney pain. Some herbal remedies include:

• Parsley Water: Known for its diuretic properties, parsley water is beneficial for cleansing the kidneys.
• Celery Juice: Blend celery stalks with water to help remove toxins from the body. Celery juice is useful because it eliminates toxins that can form stones in the kidneys.
• Basil Water: Add half a bunch of basil to one liter of hot water and let it sit until it cools down. Drink one to two glasses a day. Basil water aids in both dissolving kidney stones and preventing their formation.
• Lemon Water: Lemon water is effective in breaking down kidney stones, making it safe to consume if you don’t have blood pressure problems. You can prepare it as lemonade and drink 2-3 glasses a day.
• Wheatgrass Juice: Wheatgrass juice, beneficial for kidney pain, should be consumed in amounts of no more than 30 ml.
• Dandelion Tea: Dandelion tea has diuretic properties and is also helpful for gallbladder issues.
• Corn Silk Tea: If kidney pain is caused by an infection, corn silk tea can help alleviate the discomfort.
• Watermelon Seed Tea: Brewed with warm water, watermelon seed tea has diuretic effects that aid in cleansing the kidneys.

How Is Kidney Pain Treated?

Once the cause of kidney pain is diagnosed, the appropriate treatment is administered. Treatment options for the conditions causing kidney pain include:

• Kidney Infection: Kidney infections, which are often bacterial, are treated with the appropriate antibiotics.
• Kidney Stones: Small kidney stones can be passed by drinking plenty of water. For larger stones, lithotripsy, a procedure using shock waves to break the stones, may be used. The doctor may also use ureteroscopy to locate and remove small stones. Larger stones can be reduced with lithotripsy or dissolved with medication.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease: While kidney cysts often do not require treatment, medication is used in polycystic kidney disease to slow the progression. Healthy eating, avoiding excessive weight gain, and staying well-hydrated are also essential.
• Kidney Tumor: Surgery is performed depending on the size and location of the kidney tumors. If the tumor is small or located on the outer part of the kidney, only the tumor is surgically removed. For larger tumors in the kidney’s center, the entire kidney may need to be removed. In some cases, radiotherapy alone or combined with surgery may be necessary.
• Glomerulonephritis: Acute glomerulonephritis often resolves on its own, while chronic glomerulonephritis is persistent. Treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms, such as controlling blood pressure with diuretics and reducing potassium and salt intake. If the condition progresses to kidney failure, dialysis becomes the treatment option.
• Atherosclerotic Renal Artery Stenosis: A condition seen when the cardiovascular system is not healthy, it can be treated with medication and dietary adjustments. If necessary, surgery can be performed to open the artery.

This content provides a detailed overview of kidney pain, its causes, and possible treatments, with an emphasis on both medical and natural remedies for relief.

by imran

What is Norovirus? All Detailed Information About

What is Norovirus?

Norovirus is the most common cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne illnesses, leading to inflammation of the stomach or intestines, known as gastroenteritis. While many refer to norovirus as "stomach flu," it has no relation to the known influenza that affects the respiratory system.

Norovirus is a term used for a group of viruses. It is a member of the Caliciviridae virus family. These viruses are responsible for about 90% of viral gastroenteritis outbreaks and roughly 50% of cases worldwide. According to statistical data, norovirus causes gastroenteritis in 19-21 million people annually in the United States. Additionally, it is responsible for 56,000-71,000 hospitalizations and 570-800 deaths each year.

Noroviruses are constantly undergoing genetic changes, have adapted to survive in various environments, and are resistant to many disinfectants. For this reason, it is generally accepted that people can be infected with norovirus more than once in their lifetime, although symptoms may be less severe each time.

Norovirus infection can cause sudden and severe vomiting and diarrhea. It is highly contagious. In addition to spreading through close contact with an infected person, it can also be transmitted via contaminated water, food, or surfaces.

What are the Symptoms of Norovirus Infection?

The infection is characterized by diarrhea, stomach pain, and vomiting, starting 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus, typically lasting 1 to 3 days. Most infected patients recover without needing treatment. However, in individuals with underlying health conditions, the elderly, young children, babies, and pregnant women, vomiting and diarrhea due to the infection can lead to severe fluid loss (dehydration). In such cases, monitoring and treatment at healthcare facilities are necessary.

Norovirus infections frequently occur in crowded settings where close contact is common, such as hospitals, daycare centers, nursing homes, schools, dormitories, or military barracks, leading to outbreaks.

The symptoms of a norovirus infection can start suddenly. Some of the common symptoms of norovirus infection include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle pain
• Fatigue
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Headache

Some individuals may have norovirus infection without showing any symptoms, yet the infection is still contagious, and infected individuals can spread the virus to others.

How is Norovirus Diagnosed?

Norovirus is typically diagnosed based on a thorough medical history and symptom evaluation. The presence of the virus can also be confirmed through stool sample testing, although this test is not always necessary.

How Does Norovirus Spread?

Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illnesses resulting from contaminated food, and it can spread to humans in various ways. The virus can enter the body through close contact with an infected person, touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, or consuming contaminated food or water. Certain foods, including oysters and other seafood, can naturally be contaminated with norovirus. Some of the ways norovirus spreads include:

• Eating contaminated food
• Drinking contaminated water
• Touching your mouth after contact with a contaminated surface or object
• Close contact with someone infected with norovirus

What Are the Risk Factors for Norovirus Infection?

There are several risk factors for norovirus infection. The main ones include:

• Having a weakened immune system (e.g., individuals who have had organ transplants or those with HIV).
• Eating in environments where someone with norovirus has handled food or where food has come into contact with contaminated surfaces or water.
• Being in daycare or childcare centers.
• Living in close-contact environments such as nursing homes.
• Staying in hotels, resorts, cruise ships, or environments with a high density of people.
• Close contact with someone who has a norovirus infection.

What Are the Complications Related to Norovirus Infection?

For most people, norovirus infection is not life-threatening, and discomfort generally subsides within a few days. However, in some individuals, particularly young children, the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, those with other health conditions, or pregnant women, norovirus infection can be severe. These cases may lead to serious dehydration and, in extreme cases, even death.

Less common complications may include:

• Malnutrition
• Constipation
• Indigestion
• Acid reflux

Signs of Dehydration from Norovirus Infection:

• Extreme fatigue
• Dry mouth and throat
• Dizziness
• Decreased urine output
• Sleepiness

How is Norovirus Infection Treated?

There is no specific treatment for norovirus gastroenteritis. Instead, the main goal of treatment is to prevent dehydration and manage symptoms. Recommendations for treating the infection may include:

• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Resting
• Eating light foods

Patients may be advised to follow a light diet consisting of easy-to-digest foods. Ensuring that lost fluids from vomiting or diarrhea are replaced is a crucial aspect of treatment and monitoring.

If fluid loss cannot be managed, dehydration can develop suddenly and may become life-threatening for some individuals. Those unable to drink enough fluids or experiencing severe dehydration may require intravenous (IV) fluids at healthcare facilities.

What is the Course of Norovirus Infection?

Most people with norovirus infection feel better after 2 to 3 days without long-term effects. The virus can be present in stool both before symptoms start and up to two weeks after symptoms resolve. Because norovirus includes many different virus types and can undergo genetic mutations, it is possible to contract the disease multiple times throughout one's life.

How to Prevent Norovirus Infection?

Norovirus infection is highly contagious. To prevent infection, the following measures are recommended:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before preparing food or eating.
• Avoid contaminated food and water, including food that may have been prepared by someone who is sick.
• Wash fruits and vegetables before eating.
• Cook seafood thoroughly.
• Disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated.

While traveling, especially in areas with a high risk of norovirus, take precautions by eating only cooked foods, avoiding raw or unwashed foods, drinking only hot beverages, and avoiding food from street vendors.

Preventing the Spread of Norovirus During Illness

To prevent spreading norovirus during illness and after symptoms have ended:

• Minimize contact with others as much as possible.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Isolate oneself and any infected family members at home.
• Avoid touching food and items that others will use.
• Disinfect contaminated surfaces with a bleach-based household cleaner or a disinfectant effective against noroviruses.
• Dispose of vomit and stool carefully, using disposable gloves, cleaning with disposable towels, and placing contaminated items in sealed plastic bags. Wash potentially contaminated clothes and linens separately at a temperature of at least 60°C.
• Avoid travel for 2 to 3 days after symptoms have ceased.

If diarrhea lasts more than 2 days in an adult or 24 hours in an infant, if signs of dehydration appear, if there is a high fever, severe abdominal pain, or bloody or black diarrhea, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.

by imran

What is the Heimlich Maneuver? How to?

What is the Heimlich Maneuver?

Choking due to a foreign object becoming lodged in the throat is a situation that can commonly occur, especially in babies and children. This blockage prevents breathing by obstructing the airway, requiring quick intervention through first aid techniques. If not dealt with immediately, the foreign object in the throat can cause asphyxiation, leading to death. In such sudden situations, there is often no time to contact health services or wait for medical help to arrive. Therefore, knowing first aid techniques is crucial, as they can save lives in these scenarios. One of the essential first aid techniques everyone should be familiar with is the Heimlich maneuver, which removes the foreign object blocking the throat and clears the airway. This can save the patient's life.

What is the Heimlich Maneuver?

The Heimlich maneuver is a first aid technique developed by Henry Heimlich in 1974 to remove foreign objects lodged in the throat. Prior to this, choking first aid involved only back blows, but it was found that the Heimlich maneuver was more effective in conscious patients. This led to a combination of back and abdominal thrusts being used in first aid. If a foreign object becomes lodged in the windpipe or throat and is not removed, it can block the airway and result in choking. This can occur in both children and adults at any time. In adults, choking often happens when a piece of food becomes stuck in the airway, while in children, it can be due to food or non-food items, such as small toys, being put into the mouth. Particularly in children under the age of three, who tend to put everything in their mouths, choking due to foreign objects is a significant risk. There is only a brief window for first aid before the lack of oxygen to the brain leads to irreversible damage. If the situation is not handled promptly, blood oxygen levels decrease, brain cells begin to die due to the lack of oxygen, and without intervention, the person will ultimately die. To be prepared for such an incident, every individual should learn about the life-saving Heimlich maneuver and be ready to perform it if necessary.

When Should the Heimlich Maneuver Be Used?

Choking can occur in adults, children, and babies if a foreign object enters the airway. The universal sign of choking, recognized by everyone, is when hands are clasped around the throat. For those unable to make this gesture or in infants and small children, important signs of choking include:

• Inability to speak, make sounds, or breathe
• Difficulty or noisy breathing
• Wheezing sounds as the person tries to breathe
• Weak or severe coughing
• Changes in skin color, lips, and under the nails turning dark or blue
• Reddening of the face, followed by a pale or bluish tint
• Loss of consciousness

If a person shows signs of choking or indicates that they are choking, the bystander should be prepared to perform the Heimlich maneuver.

How to Perform the Heimlich Maneuver

Performing the Heimlich maneuver correctly and at the right moment is critical to saving a choking victim. If the person showing signs of choking can cough strongly, they should be encouraged to continue coughing. If they are unable to speak, respond, or breathe, the "five-and-five" approach is recommended:

1. If the choking person is an adult, stand behind them; if it's a child, kneel down. Place one arm across the person's chest for support and have them lean forward so that the upper body is parallel to the ground. Deliver five firm back blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand. If this does not dislodge the object, proceed to the Heimlich maneuver.
2. To perform the Heimlich maneuver, stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist. Make a fist with one hand and place it slightly above the belly button and below the rib cage. Grasp the fist with the other hand. While the person remains slightly bent forward, perform five quick upward thrusts, pressing firmly into the abdomen as if trying to lift them upward. The goal is to force air from the lungs to expel the object.
3. For pregnant or obese individuals, the hands should be positioned higher, just above the point where the lower ribs meet, rather than below the rib cage.
4. If you are alone, perform five back blows followed by five abdominal thrusts before calling emergency services. If a second rescuer is present, emergency services should be called immediately.
5. If the object is not dislodged, continue alternating between five back blows and five abdominal thrusts until the object is removed. If the person's consciousness is lost, lay them on their back and begin basic life support. Standard CPR includes chest compressions and rescue breaths.

How to Perform the Heimlich Maneuver on Infants

If a foreign object becomes lodged in the airway of a baby under the age of one, the following first aid steps should be taken:

1. Sit down and place the infant face-down on your forearm, resting your forearm on your thigh. Support the baby's head and neck with your hand, ensuring the head is lower than the chest.
2. Deliver five gentle but firm back blows to the middle of the baby's back using the heel of your hand. Keep your fingers pointing upward to avoid hitting the baby's head.
3. If the object is not expelled and the baby is still not breathing, turn the infant over so they are face-up on your forearm, with the head still lower than the chest. Use two fingers to apply five quick chest compressions on the breastbone.
4. If breathing does not resume, call for medical help while continuing the cycle of five back blows and five chest compressions until help arrives. Be cautious not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging internal organs or ribs.

If back blows and the Heimlich maneuver fail to clear the airway and consciousness is lost, begin CPR or chest compressions for basic life support.

Choking incidents can happen to anyone, from children swallowing small objects during play to adults choking on food while eating. In many cases worldwide, lives could be saved with simple first aid techniques to dislodge objects from the airway, but a lack of first aid knowledge often leads to fatalities. To prevent this, everyone should be informed about the Heimlich maneuver and be prepared to use it to save themselves or someone else in an emergency.

By learning the Heimlich maneuver and its application techniques, you can be prepared to provide life-saving first aid during choking incidents, potentially saving lives in critical moments.

by imran