What Are the Inflammation Markers?
When your body fights infection, injury, or chronic illness, it produces signs of inflammation. These signs can be detected in your blood. Doctors call them inflammation markers. But what are they, and why do they matter?
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, 73 Baker Street, London, we provide fast inflammation marker testing with same-day results. This blog explains the key markers, why you might need them, and how to get tested.
What are inflammation markers?
Inflammation markers are substances in your blood that rise when your body is fighting something. They are not a diagnosis on their own. Instead, they point towards underlying issues.
Doctors use them to check for:
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Arthritis and joint problems
- Chronic illnesses such as heart disease
- Hidden inflammation that could damage long-term health
The main inflammation markers
There are several types of markers commonly tested.
C-reactive protein (CRP):
CRP rises quickly in response to infection or injury. A high CRP can signal acute inflammation.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR):
ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a test tube. Faster rates mean more inflammation.
Ferritin:
Ferritin stores iron in the body. High levels can point to inflammation or chronic disease.
Fibrinogen:
This protein helps blood clot. Raised levels may show inflammation and higher risk of heart disease.
White blood cell count:
An increase in white cells often signals infection or immune activity.
Why test for inflammation markers?
These tests give doctors important clues. They help to:
- Detect infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections
- Monitor autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
- Check for chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease
- Understand causes of persistent fatigue, pain, or fever
- Track response to treatment in long-term conditions
Who should consider an inflammation marker test?
You might benefit from testing if you have:
- Ongoing tiredness or weakness
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Repeated infections
- Long-term digestive issues
- Unexplained fevers or sweats
Even if you feel well, inflammation markers can reveal hidden problems. Some people include them in annual health checks.
The process at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
Getting tested is quick and simple.
- Book your appointment online or by phone.
- Have a blood sample taken by our experienced team.
- Your sample is analysed with modern technology.
- Results are available the same day.
- A doctor explains findings and suggests next steps.
The whole process takes under 15 minutes.
How do doctors interpret results?
A high marker level does not confirm one condition. It shows that your body is fighting something. Doctors may order further tests to pinpoint the cause.
For example:
- High CRP + fever → possible infection
- High ESR + joint pain → possible arthritis
- High ferritin + fatigue → possible chronic illness
This is why expert interpretation is important.
Lifestyle links to inflammation
Sometimes, inflammation is linked to lifestyle choices. Factors that can raise markers include:
- Poor diet high in processed foods
- Lack of exercise
- Smoking or heavy alcohol use
- Obesity
- Chronic stress
Improving lifestyle can often lower inflammation and reduce future health risks.
FAQs about inflammation markers
Inflammation markers are vital tools in modern medicine. They do not give a complete answer, but they highlight when the body is under stress. At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, 73 Baker Street, London, we provide fast, accurate inflammation marker tests with same-day results. Our expert team helps you understand your health and take action early.
Book your inflammation marker test today at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre. Trusted testing, rapid results, central London location.
73 Baker Street, London
+44 7495 970109
marylebonediagnosticcentre.com
