The ESR test, or erythrocyte sedimentation rate test, is a blood test that helps detect inflammation in your body. Your doctor may recommend it if you show symptoms of certain inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. Understanding the ESR test normal range and what an ESR test high result means can help you make informed decisions about your health.

What is the ESR Test?

The ESR test measures how quickly erythrocytes (red blood cells) settle at the bottom of a test tube containing your blood sample. Inflammation can cause certain proteins (such as fibrinogen) to increase in your blood, causing red blood cells to clump together and settle faster. The ESR test reports results in millimetres per hour (mm/hr). Generally, the higher the ESR value, the more inflammation is present.

Why is the ESR Test Done?

Your doctor may recommend an ESR test if you have symptoms of inflammatory conditions, such as:

• Unexplained fever: Persistent or recurring fever without a clear cause may signal underlying inflammation or infection.
• Joint pain or stiffness: Painful, swollen, or stiff joints may indicate autoimmune conditions like arthritis.
• Headaches: Chronic or severe headaches can be related to inflammatory disorders affecting blood vessels.
• Neck pain: Inflammation in the spine or surrounding tissues can cause persistent neck discomfort.
• Anaemia: A low red blood cell count can influence ESR results and may be associated with underlying chronic diseases.
• Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without changes in diet or activity can suggest a hidden illness.

The ESR test can help diagnose and monitor:

• Autoimmune disorders: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus that cause systemic inflammation.
• Infections: Ongoing infections may elevate ESR levels, helping guide diagnosis and treatment.
• Certain cancers: Blood cancers such as lymphoma or multiple myeloma can cause elevated ESR, which may help monitor disease progression or response to treatment.
• Giant cell arteritis: A condition causing inflammation of arteries in the head, often with vision symptoms.
• Polymyalgia rheumatica: An inflammatory disorder causing muscle pain and stiffness, especially in older adults.

What is the ESR Test Normal Range?

The ESR test normal range varies depending on factors like age and gender:

An ESR test high result may indicate inflammation, but it doesn't diagnose a specific disease. Your doctor will interpret the ESR test result along with your symptoms and other tests.

Factors Affecting ESR Test Results

Several factors can affect your ESR test results:

• Age: ESR normally increases with age
• Anaemia: Low red blood cell count can increase ESR
• Pregnancy: ESR may be higher, especially in later stages
• Medication: Oral contraceptives, aspirin, and cortisone can increase ESR
• Smoking: Smoking can raise ESR levels

ESR Test Cost and Preparation

The ESR test cost is affordable, and the test is widely available at most diagnostic laboratories. The ESR test price may vary slightly between labs but is generally inexpensive. No special preparation is needed for the test. A small blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm and sent to the lab for analysis.