High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)

Chronic low-grade inflammation damages blood vessels silently over years. Elevated hs-CRP itself causes no symptoms but signals increased risk for heart attack, stroke, and diabetes. In some cases, this inflammation may subtly show as persistent fatigue or low energy. Very high levels typically point to acute infection or inflammatory disease.

Lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise often drive chronic elevation, meaning targeted lifestyle changes can effectively reduce risk.

Most adults benefit from yearly hs-CRP testing as part of a cardiometabolic check. After a sustained anti-inflammatory intervention such as weight loss, better sleep, or dietary change, retest at 6 to 8 weeks.

At baseline / for screening: Once every 12 months from age 30 as part of a cardiometabolic check. More frequently if you have a chronic inflammatory condition.

When monitoring an intervention or change: Retest 6 to 8 weeks after a sustained anti-inflammatory lifestyle change, such as better sleep, meaningful weight loss, reducing alcohol and refined carbs, or shifting toward a Mediterranean-style diet. The same window applies after starting an anti-inflammatory medication. Avoid testing during acute illness, recent infection, dental issues, or within 48 hours of intense exercise. For a reliable baseline, use the average of two readings two weeks apart.

Note: Single hs-CRP values can mislead, since acute illness, recent infection, dental issues, vigorous exercise, and recent vaccination all spike the value. Wait 2 to 4 weeks after these resolve, and use the average of two readings 2 weeks apart for cardiovascular risk assessment.