Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Analysis
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) is a blood test that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the bottom of a tube over a period of one hour. The rate at which the red blood cells fall is indicative of inflammation in the body, which can be caused by various medical conditions.
ESR Reference Range:
Normal Range: 0 to 20 millimeters per hour (mm/hr) for men and 0 to 30 mm/hr for women.
Managing high ESR levels requires tackling the root cause, whether it's infections, autoimmune disorders, or other inflammatory diseases, with treatments ranging from anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics to condition-specific therapies. Regular ESR checks are crucial for tracking the progress of these conditions and the success of treatments. Since ESR is a broad marker, its results need to be viewed alongside other medical evaluations and tests to accurately diagnose or monitor a disease. Identifying what's causing an elevated ESR entails a thorough evaluation, including reviewing the patient's medical history, conducting physical exams, and performing tests aimed at the suspected issues.
