What does increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate mean?
In medical examinations, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a common indicator used to assess the presence of inflammation or infection. In recent years, increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate has become a hot topic. Many people find this abnormality during physical examination or medical treatment, but they are not clear about its meaning. This article will combine the hot content on the Internet in the past 10 days to explain in detail the significance, possible causes and related data of blood pressure increase.
1. What is elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate?

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate refers to the speed at which red blood cells sink in the blood, usually measured in millimeters per hour (mm/h). Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate means that the rate of red blood cell sinking is abnormally increased, which may indicate the presence of inflammation, infection, or other diseases in the body.
| ESR range | clinical significance |
|---|---|
| 0-15 mm/h (male) | normal range |
| 0-20 mm/h (female) | normal range |
| >20 mm/h (male) | slightly faster |
| >30 mm/h (female) | slightly faster |
| >50mm/h | Significantly increased speed, further inspection is required |
2. Possible causes of increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate
According to recent hot medical discussions, increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate may be related to the following diseases or conditions:
| Classification | specific reasons |
|---|---|
| inflammatory diseases | Rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, tuberculosis |
| Infect | Bacterial infection, viral infection (such as the recent epidemic of influenza) |
| tumor | Lymphoma, multiple myeloma |
| other | anemia, pregnancy, advanced age |
3. The relationship between recent hot spots and increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate
1.influenza season: Recently, many places have entered the influenza season. Many patients seek medical treatment due to fever and cough, and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate test shows a rapid increase, suggesting viral infection or secondary bacterial infection.
2.Rising concern about autoimmune diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases are increasingly discussed on social media, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate is one of the diagnostic indicators, arousing public curiosity.
3.Popularization of health check-ups: At the peak of physical examinations at the end of the year, many people find abnormal erythrocyte sedimentation rate, but have no clear symptoms, and need to be further evaluated in conjunction with other examinations.
4. What should I do if the erythrocyte sedimentation rate increases?
If the examination reveals that the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is increased, it is recommended to take the following steps:
1.Combined with other indicators: Such as C-reactive protein (CRP), blood routine, etc., to comprehensively judge the degree of inflammation.
2.Investigate the cause: Based on symptoms and medical history, targeted examinations (such as rheumatic immune indicators, imaging examinations).
3.dynamic monitoring: Those with mildly rapid growth and no symptoms can be re-examined after 1-3 months.
4.Seek medical attention promptly: If the erythrocyte sedimentation rate increases significantly (>50 mm/h) or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever and weight loss, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible.
5. Misunderstandings about increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate
In recent online discussions, the following common misunderstandings exist:
| Misunderstanding | fact |
|---|---|
| Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate must be cancer | Cancer is only one possible cause and needs to be combined with other tests |
| A normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate means you are not sick. | In some diseases (such as early-stage tumors), the erythrocyte sedimentation rate may be normal |
| The higher the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, the more severe the condition | ESR only reflects the degree of inflammation and needs to be combined with clinical manifestations |
Summarize
Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate is a non-specific indicator that may indicate a variety of diseases or physiological states. The recent high incidence of influenza and the arrival of physical examination season have made it a hot topic. When abnormal erythrocyte sedimentation rate is found, excessive panic should be avoided, but it cannot be ignored. It needs to be comprehensively judged in conjunction with other examinations and clinical symptoms. If you have any questions, it is recommended to consult a professional doctor in time.
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