CRP and ESR Result I don't understand what they mean.

Hi guys,

I started on methotrexate about 2 months ago  for RA and getting blood tests every 2 weeks. This week by CRP and ESR have increased again. My ESR went from 23 down to 16, which is good im told. However this week it is up to 21 again. What does this mean?

My CRP was at 8 a few weeks ago but now it has increased to 23, again does anyone know what this means?

I feel pain in my wrists, hands and shoulders and I have been exusted for the past week- would this be the cause of the levels changing? I am hoping that I am not going to flare but I have been so tired and my hand and wrist joints hurt bad and every muscle in my body feels sore and heavy.

Can someone please explain the results of the blood tests and tell me the normal ranges for these tests- Im not sure ehat they are. Please help

Hi Lynny, I wouldn't worry unless your rheumy worries, the bloodwork goes up and down all the time. The rheumy's are really quick to respond if its anything to worry about. Talk to them when you next see them. In my experience they treat your symptoms unless the blood shows major changes. I know my CRP was over 300 at one stage, so 23 sounds ok to me.

If your joint pain is getting worse then go back and see your rheumy and talk about other options, there are so many meds out there to go with mtx, it could be the mtx is not enough for you. Its the pits of a disease, so slow to respond to these meds, I continually feel I'm waiting for something to work, so I can understand your frustration and worry.

Please come and rant and vent here, We love to share our stories, golitho