In ancient times, people believed that the blood has some magical powers. Now with the help of modern medicine, thanks to the analysis of blood, you can learn about the state of the body. To do this, it is necessary to determine the index of sedimentation rate of erythrocytes (ESR).
ESR - what is it?
The index of ESR is determined in laboratory conditions and shows the ratio of plasma protein fractions. In a simple language, the ESR will show how quickly your blood splits into factions. Precisely the rate of erythrocyte sedimentation rate shows how quickly this happens. If the body has an inflammatory process, then this ESR can change, which will become a clear signal about the disease. ESR norm in women ranges from 2 to 15 mm per hour.
What is the norm of SEA?
ESR rate for women depends on many factors. It is worth noting the age and, of course, the state of the body. Thus, it is believed that ESR is normal in women from 20 to 30 years with an index of 4 to 15 mm / hour. If a woman is pregnant, then we should expect a significantly increased rate - from 20 to 45 mm per hour. In middle-aged women (from 30 to 60 years old), the norm is considered to be 8 to 25 mm per hour. If a woman has reached the age of over 60 years, then the analysis is likely to show ESR from 12 to 53 mm per hour. ESR is normal in women is higher than that of men.
What should I do if the ESR indicators are changed?
If the general blood test determines that your ESR index is not within the normal range, you should not panic. Perhaps the reason is flu or a viral infection. A repeated blood test after recovery will show that the ESR is again within normal limits.
If the indicators of ESR are overestimated, it is quite possible that the cause lies in the diet. So, starvation, malnutrition and even a hearty meal before giving an analysis can show an overestimated ESR. Therefore, if you have any abnormalities, it is advisable to pass the analysis again. Also, the blood test for ESR can be higher than normal if you are in a period of menstruation, are allergic or in the postpartum period.
If the indicator is overstated, it is worthwhile to undergo additional research, to exclude possible causes. If other blood counts are in order, then you can be calm.
Where there is a lower rate of ESR. It can testify to vegetarianism or the taking of certain medicines.
What diseases can cause increased ESR?
If the rate of ESR is elevated, it could mean the presence of tuberculosis, pneumonia and other acute inflammatory diseases. Also an increased rate is observed in case of poisoning, cancer and myocardial infarction. Of course, to determine all these diagnoses, ESR analysis is not enough. It is possible that the reason for the overestimated analysis may be hidden in a hearty breakfast. Therefore, do not be in a hurry to get upset if the ESR is above normal.
If the analysis showed that the ESR is normal, and the lymphocytes are increased (the norm very often depends on the laboratory and only the doctor can correctly determine it), some kind of viral infection is possible. In addition, it should be taken into account that the index of ESR is very inert, therefore it is necessary to retake the analysis once again.
How is ESR determined?
There are two main methods for determining the index of ESR. In the post-Soviet countries,
So, if your ESR index is different from the norm, you should definitely go through a second analysis and make sure that you do not take any medication, are not in the post-labor, menstruation period or after the operations. Also, it is worth taking a closer look at your diet.