⏳ Sedimentation Rate (ESR) — A Key Inflammation Marker
The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), commonly called the Sed Rate, is a simple but valuable blood test used to detect inflammation in the body. It measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube over a specific period. The faster they settle, the more likely it is that inflammation is present.
🔍 What Does a High Sed Rate Indicate?
A high ESR can suggest inflammation caused by:
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Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
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Chronic infections
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Certain cancers
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Other inflammatory conditions
While ESR is a nonspecific test — meaning it doesn’t point to a single disease — it is helpful in:
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Monitoring the severity or activity of an inflammatory condition
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Tracking response to treatment over time
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