Blood test for ESR in Palam

What is the ESR, or erythrocyte sedimentation rate?

The ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) test is a blood test that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle to the bottom of a tube in one hour.

It is a non-specific test that can be used to help diagnose conditions such as inflammation, infection, and certain types of cancer. It is often used as a marker of inflammation and can help monitor the progression of a disease or the effectiveness of treatment.

Using a blood test called an ESR, doctors can gauge how quickly red blood cells clump together in a test tube. This shows if you have any inflammation in your body.

Why is the ESR test recommended?

The ESR test is recommended if you have symptoms such as: 

• Inflammation, such as joint pain and stiffness, fever, or a general feeling of being unwell
• Symptoms of an infection, such as a fever, sore throat, or cough.
• Symptoms of certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma or multiple myeloma.
• When you have a condition that may be associated with inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or vasculitis.

It may also be recommended when a person is being treated for a condition and the healthcare provider wants to monitor the progression of the disease or the effectiveness of treatment, as well as if he or she suspects a person may have a condition that is causing inflammation but the cause is not yet known.

What is the normal range of ESR blood tests?

At our ESR blood test center in Palam, generally, a normal ESR level is considered to be less than 20 mm/hr for women and less than 15 mm/hr for men. However, some labs may have different ranges, and the normal range can also be affected by factors such as age, sex, and overall health.

What can cause high ESR levels?

There are many different conditions and factors that can cause high ESR levels. The following are some of the most common causes of high ESR:

1. Inflammation: Conditions that cause inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and vasculitis, can lead to high ESR levels.
2. Infection: Certain types of infections, such as bacterial infections and tuberculosis, can cause an increase in ESR.
3. Cancer: Certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and multiple myeloma, can cause high ESR levels.
4. Anaemia: Anemia, a condition in which there are not enough red blood cells in the blood, can cause an increase in ESR.

It’s important to note that high ESR levels can also occur with no underlying disease or condition; this is called a “non-specific” elevation. This can happen due to some non-pathological conditions such as obesity, smoking, and high altitude.

What should you do before taking an ESR test?

Before taking an ESR test, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Fasting: You may be asked to fast for a certain period of time before the test, usually for 8-12 hours. Your healthcare provider will let you know if fasting is necessary.
• Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking, as some medications such as steroids and birth control pills can affect the results of the ESR test.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arm for the blood draw.
• Avoid exercise: Try to avoid strenuous physical activity for a few hours before the test, as exercise can temporarily increase ESR levels.
• Hydration: It’s important to stay well hydrated before taking the test.
• Inform your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are pregnant, as this may affect the test result.

It’s always important to follow the instructions given by our healthcare provider and to let us know if you have any questions or concerns about the test.

for more information visit Sheetal Chhaya Diagnostics in Dwarka