Why is Faecal Calprotectin High? Causes, Symptoms, and What to Do

Faecal calprotectin is a protein found in your stool that is often used as a marker to assess inflammation in the intestines. If your faecal calprotectin levels are high, it might indicate the presence of inflammation in your digestive tract. Understanding the potential causes and what this means for your health can help you make informed decisions.

What is Faecal Calprotectin?

Faecal calprotectin is a protein that is released by white blood cells, specifically neutrophils, during inflammation. When your intestines are inflamed, higher amounts of this protein can be found in your stool. This test is commonly used to help differentiate between inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and non-inflammatory conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Why Faecal Calprotectin Levels Matter

High levels of faecal calprotectin can be a sign of inflammation in the intestines. It is important because it helps in diagnosing and monitoring inflammatory bowel diseases. For instance, consistently high levels can indicate active inflammation, which might require medical treatment to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Causes of High Faecal Calprotectin Levels

There are several reasons why faecal calprotectin levels might be elevated:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are common causes of high faecal calprotectin levels.
• Infections: Gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to temporary increases in faecal calprotectin.
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These medications can irritate the gut lining, leading to increased calprotectin levels.
• Colorectal Cancer: In some cases, high levels may be associated with colorectal cancer, although this is less common.

Symptoms Associated with High Faecal Calprotectin

While faecal calprotectin itself does not cause symptoms, the underlying conditions that elevate it might. Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Diarrhea, sometimes with blood
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue

These symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency depending on the underlying cause.

Reading and Understanding Your Test Results

Faecal calprotectin test results are usually given in micrograms per gram of stool (µg/g). A higher number indicates more inflammation. There is no universally agreed-upon threshold for what constitutes 'high' levels, as it can vary based on individual circumstances and the laboratory's reference range. It's important to discuss your specific results with a healthcare provider who can interpret them in the context of your overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can stress increase faecal calprotectin levels? Stress alone is unlikely to cause a significant increase in faecal calprotectin levels. However, stress can exacerbate symptoms of existing gastrointestinal conditions.

2. How is the faecal calprotectin test performed? The test is performed by collecting a stool sample, which is then analyzed in a laboratory to measure the level of calprotectin.

3. Can diet affect faecal calprotectin levels? Dietary changes do not typically affect faecal calprotectin levels significantly, though certain foods might worsen symptoms in conditions like IBD.

When to See a Doctor

If you receive a test result showing high faecal calprotectin levels, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. This is especially crucial if you experience symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, or blood in your stool. A doctor can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health.