ESR

Description

About ESR Test

The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a ... test tube in one hour. A faster rate suggests inflammation, infection, or chronic disease. The ESR test does not diagnose a specific disease but helps doctors monitor inflammatory conditions like arthritis, infections, or autoimmune diseases.

Preparations Before the ESR Test

• Fasting is not required unless specified by your doctor.
• Inform your doctor about medications like NSAIDs, steroids, or blood thinners, as they can affect results.
• Stay hydrated before the test to make blood collection easier.
• Avoid intense physical activity before testing, as it can temporarily raise ESR levels.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm.
• The process takes about 5 minutes and may cause mild discomfort.
• The sample is placed in a test tube, and red blood cell sedimentation is measured after an hour.
• Results are usually available within 24–48 hours.

Why Doctors May Recommend ESR Test

Doctors order an ESR test to:

• Detect Infections: Bacterial or viral infections, including tuberculosis and pneumonia.
• Monitor Autoimmune Diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and polymyalgia rheumatica.
• Evaluate Chronic Inflammatory Conditions: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), or certain cancers.
• Assess Unexplained Symptoms: Fever, joint pain, muscle stiffness, and weight loss.
• Track Disease Progression: Helps monitor treatment response in chronic inflammatory diseases.

Factors That Contribute to the Risk of Abnormal ESR Levels

• Chronic Infections: Tuberculosis, HIV, and long-term bacterial infections.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and vasculitis.
• Cancers: Multiple myeloma, lymphoma, and metastatic cancers.
• Anemia: Low red blood cell count can increase ESR levels.
• Pregnancy: ESR is naturally higher in pregnant women.
• Age & Gender: Higher in older adults and females.

Understanding the Test Results

• Normal ESR Range:
  • Men: 0 – 15 mm/hr
  • Women: 0 – 20 mm/hr
  • Children: 0 – 10 mm/hr
  • Elderly (>50 years): 0 – 30 mm/hr
• Mildly Elevated ESR: Could indicate a minor infection, anemia, or mild inflammation.
• Moderately Elevated ESR: May suggest autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
• Very High ESR (>100 mm/hr): Strongly suggests severe infections, cancers, or chronic inflammatory diseases.

ESR Testing Results During Special Conditions

• Pregnancy: ESR levels naturally rise due to increased plasma volume.
• Chronic Diseases: ESR is persistently high in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or kidney disease.
• After Surgery or Injury: Temporary increase in ESR due to healing response.
• Anemia: Can falsely elevate ESR levels.

How to Maintain Healthy ESR Levels in the Body

• Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3-rich foods like fish.
• Exercise Regularly: Helps reduce inflammation and improves circulation.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water supports blood health.
• Manage Stress: High stress increases inflammation, so practice yoga, meditation, or relaxation techniques.
• Control Underlying Conditions: Manage chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis.
• Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol: Both can contribute to inflammation and increased ESR levels.