Home> ERYTHROCYTE SEDIMENTATION RATE (ESR)
Patient Preparation:No special preparation is required
Erythrocytes, commonly known as red blood cells (RBCs), are specialized cells in the bloodstream that play a crucial role in the human body.
Erythrocytes, or red blood cells (RBCs), are essential for:
An Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test is used to gauge how quickly red blood cells or RBCs settle in a vertical tube of blood over the course of an hour or over a specified period. The normal range varies with age and gender, typically being higher in women and increasing with age. Elevated levels may indicate inflammation, infection, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers such as lymphoma and multiple myeloma.
ESR tests are used to diagnose and monitor conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, temporal arteritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and infections.
Doctors order an Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test for several reasons including but aren’t limited to:
- Detecting inflammation in the body, which could indicate various conditions such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers.
- Monitoring diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and temporal arteritis to assess disease activity and treatment effectiveness.
- Diagnosing bacterial or viral infections, especially when symptoms are unclear or persistent.
- Screening for other conditions affecting red blood cells, blood vessels, and other systemic disorders.
- Guiding treatment plans based on the degree of inflammation indicated by ESR levels.
By ordering an ESR test, doctors can gather valuable information to aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of various medical conditions characterized by inflammation.
ESR tests are quick and relatively painless. ESR Tests require minimal to no preparation. The entire ESR test procedure takes less than 15 minutes.
Before undergoing an Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test, consider the following precautions and preparations:
- Usually, no fasting is required before an ESR test. However, following any specific instructions provided by your doctor is advisable.
- Make sure to notify your physician about any medications (antidepressants, NSAIDS, antifungals, diuretics, blood thinners and oral contraceptives), herbal supplements, or OTC drugs you're using, as some can influence ESR levels.
- ESR levels may vary throughout the day. While not critical, morning appointments are generally recommended for consistency.
- Remain calm and relaxed during the procedure to minimize any potential impact on ESR levels.
By following these precautions and preparing accordingly, you can help ensure that the ESR test results are accurate and meaningful for your healthcare assessment.
An Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test is recommended for:
- Individuals experiencing symptoms such as unexplained fever, prolonged fatigue, joint pain, or swelling that could indicate inflammation.
- Patients with known inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or polymyalgia rheumatica, to monitor disease activity and treatment effectiveness.
- Individuals with symptoms suggestive of infections, where ESR can help confirm and assess the severity of bacterial or viral infections.
- Those suspected of having autoimmune diseases where ESR can aid in the diagnostic process alongside other tests.
- To monitor for potential complications such as infections following surgery, guiding appropriate post-operative care.
The blood sample is collected from your upper arm vein and subsequently processed using a fully automated analyzer.
When there is inflammation in the body, certain proteins called acute phase reactants, including fibrinogen and immunoglobulins, increase in the blood. These proteins cause red blood cells to stick together more, making them settle faster.
The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test is generally safe, but there are a few minor risks associated with the procedure. Some of the risks of ESR tests include but aren’t limited to:
- It's possible for a few individuals to experience momentary discomfort or pain while their blood is being drawn.
- There may be slight bruising or soreness at the site where blood is drawn.
- Rarely, a person may feel lightheaded or faint during or after the blood collection.
- In very rare cases, there could be prolonged bleeding at the needle puncture site.
These risks are typically of minor concern and often resolve without leading to any severe consequences.
Understanding Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test results provides insights into possible health conditions. The normal ESR range varies by age and gender, typically higher in women and increasing with age.
These ranges may slightly vary depending on the laboratory and the method used to perform the ESR test. It's important to interpret results in conjunction with clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests for accurate assessment.
ESR levels can also indicate disease activity and response to treatment.
Elevated levels may indicate inflammation in the body, but not the specific cause. Further tests are often needed to pinpoint conditions such as infections, autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), or certain cancers.
Results are interpreted alongside symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic tests to guide diagnosis and treatment decisions. Factors like age, pregnancy, menstruation, and medications can temporarily elevate ESR levels, so context is crucial in interpreting results. ESR levels can also indicate disease activity and response to treatment.
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Ans) The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test can typically be done at any time of day, as fasting is usually not required. However, Erythrocyte sedimentation rates can vary throughout the day so it’s advisable to check with your doctor on the best time to get an ESR Test done.
Ans) Results from an ESR test are usually available within 24 hours of taking the test but it may vary depending on the laboratory.
Ans) The frequency of ESR testing is determined by your health status and advice from your doctor, ranging from routine monitoring for chronic conditions to periodic evaluations for acute illnesses.
Ans) High ESR levels often prompt additional tests to pinpoint the cause of inflammation, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring disease progression. Elevated ESR levels may indicate inflammation in the body, which can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, or certain cancers. Further evaluation is needed to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Ans) ESR tends to be higher in females due to hormonal influences, particularly estrogen, which can affect blood proteins involved in the sedimentation process.
Ans) The cost of an ESR Test may significantly vary depending on factors like the diagnostic center or hospital where you get the ESR Test, location of the diagnostic center or hospital. The ESR Test test price at Vijaya Diagnostic typically ranges from just INR 120 to INR 290. Plus, with app-only discounts and cashbacks, taking care of your health has never been easier or more rewarding.
Ans) An ESR test can detect conditions associated with inflammation, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers.
Ans) While ESR levels themselves cannot be directly lowered, treating underlying conditions causing inflammation, such as infections or autoimmune diseases, can help normalize ESR over time.
Ans) If you are looking for a reliable and affordable diagnostic center to get an ESR test near you then look no further than Vijaya Diagnostics. With over 140+ cutting edge labs across 20+ cities, you’re sure to find a Vijaya Diagnostic center near you!
What’s more? We are bringing ESR tests, preventive health checkups and other blood tests right to your doorstep with our home sample collection option. Book a convenient time slot using our app and enjoy exclusive discounts, cashbacks and more on the Vijaya Diagnostic app! You can alternatively call us on 040 - 2100 0000 or choose your preferred test from the Vijaya Diagnostics website.
Ans) Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, omega-3 fatty acids and vegetables may help manage inflammation and potentially lower ESR levels. However, specific foods directly reducing ESR have not been conclusively identified.
Ans) ESR levels can return to normal once the underlying cause of inflammation is effectively treated and managed, often through medication, lifestyle changes, or other therapies.