Understanding the ESR Test: A Patient’s Guide (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)

Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam
Apr 24
2 min read

Updated: Apr 29

What is an ESR Test?

The ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) test is a simple blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube over an hour. A faster rate than normal can indicate the presence of inflammation in the body.

Why is the ESR Test Done?

Doctors use the ESR test to help detect and monitor several conditions, including:

Inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or vasculitis
Infections, such as tuberculosis or abscesses
Certain cancers, like lymphoma or multiple myeloma
Autoimmune disorders

Though it doesn’t identify the exact cause, it helps indicate that inflammation is present.

Normal ESR Values

ESR levels vary based on age and gender:

In men under 50 years: normal ESR is 0 to 15 mm/hr
In women under 50 years: 0 to 20 mm/hr
In men over 50 years: 0 to 20 mm/hr
In women over 50 years: 0 to 30 mm/hr
In children: 0 to 10 mm/hr

These values may slightly differ depending on the lab.

What Does a High ESR Mean?

A higher-than-normal ESR may suggest inflammation due to:

Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
Ongoing infections
Chronic kidney disease
Certain types of cancer

Since ESR is non-specific, additional tests are usually needed to find the exact cause.

What Does a Low ESR Mean?

Low ESR is less common, but it can occur in conditions like:

Heart failure
Some blood disorders, including sickle cell anemia
High blood sugar or protein levels in the blood

How to Prepare for the Test

No fasting is required before the ESR test. You can eat and drink normally. However, it’s important to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they may influence the results.

Limitations of the ESR Test

Non-specific: It cannot diagnose a specific illness on its own.
ESR levels may increase naturally with age, during pregnancy, or in anemia.
It’s often used alongside other tests like CRP (C-reactive protein) to get a clearer picture of your health.

Summary

The ESR test is a useful screening tool to detect inflammation in your body. Abnormal results don’t always indicate a serious problem but should be interpreted by your doctor in the context of your symptoms, history, and other lab results. Always follow up with your doctor for further evaluation.

Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)

Internal Medicine Specialist

Kify Hospital

Danavaipeta

Rajahmundry

Phone : 85000 23456