When your body is inflamed, certain proteins, mainly fibrinogen, increase in the blood. These proteins cause t...
ESR ( Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)Inflammation is your body's natural defense against infection, injury, or disease. When you have inflammation, certain proteins and immunoglobulins in the blood increase. This causes red blood cells (RBCs) to clump together and settle faster (sedimentation rate).The ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) test measures this sedimentation rate. It is an indirect indicator of inflammation and tissue damage. The ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) test is non-specific. It cannot diagnose a particular disease. It also cannot determine the cause of the inflammation. It is usually done along with other tests to identify the underlying condition.Higher ESR values usually mean more inflammation or active disease. They can be raised in:Infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal)Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupusBlood vessel inflammation (vasculitis)After a heart attack, surgery, or injurySome cancers, such as lymphoma or multiple myelomaOther factors can also increase ESR. These include anemia, pregnancy, aging, or certain medications.Usually, fasting overnight (8-12 hours) is preferred but not required for this test. It's important to tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you take, as some may affect your test results.ESR test result ranges may vary across laboratories. Do not self-medicate. Always consult your doctor to understand your test results correctly.
When your body is inflamed, certain proteins, mainly fibrinogen, increase in the blood. These proteins cause the red blood cells to stick together in stacks. These stacks settle faster, leading to a higher ESR. The ESR test shows that inflammation is present. However, it cannot tell you exactly where the inflammation is or what is causing it. That’s why doctors usually do this test along with other tests. This helps them understand and treat your health problems.
Fasting overnight (8-12 hours) is preferred but not required for this test.
It's important to tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you take, as some may affect your test results.
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