ESR 52 mm/hr means : is it normal, good, bad or dangerous?

Published Date : 2023-12-04T13:31:03.637Z

Updated Date : 2023-12-04T13:31:03.637+00:00

What is ESR?

How is ESR measured?

ESR, or Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, is measured by collecting a small blood sample from the patient's arm, usually from a vein. Before the blood draw, the area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution to ensure a sterile collection. Once obtained, the blood is mixed with an anticoagulant to prevent clotting. The prepared blood sample is then placed in a tall, thin tube, which is positioned upright to allow red blood cells to settle over a specific period, often one hour. The distance the red blood cells travel in the tube during this time is carefully measured, and the settling rate is recorded. The Westergren method, a widely recognized technique for ESR measurement, involves the use of a specialized Westergren tube for blood collection. In preparation for the test, patients are usually advised to communicate any medications they are taking to their healthcare provider, as certain drugs can influence the results. Fasting is not mandatory for ESR, but maintaining hydration is recommended to facilitate an efficient blood draw and ensure accurate results. ESR is an essential diagnostic tool, providing healthcare professionals with valuable information to assess and monitor inflammatory conditions within the body.

What is the normal range of ESR and how is an ESR of 52 graded?

Different sources mention slightly different normal ranges for ESR. The normal range also varies slightly based on the method of measurement. When measured by the Westergren method, the normal range for ESR is mentioned below for adult males, adult females and children.

Normal Range and Grading for Adult Males : ESR 52

Normal Range and Grading for Adult Women : ESR 52

Normal Range and Grading for Children : ESR 52

What does an ESR of 52 mm/hr mean?

An ESR level of 52 is considered to be significantly elevated. A cause must be found for the elevated ESR, while ruling out normal or physiological causes. An ESR between 50 and 80, is definitely not normal and must be further investigated together with additional tests, that are listed in a subsequent section.

Is an ESR of 52 mm/hr good?

An ESR of 52 is not a good value. In adults, or children this value is above normal and needs investigating.

Is an ESR of 52 mm/hr bad?

An ESR of 52 is bad in all populations and should be further investigated.

Is an ESR of 52 mm/hr dangerous?

An ESR of 52 is elevated but not necessarily dangerous

Is an ESR of 52 mm/hr normal?

An ESR of 52 is not normal and is classified as elevated.

What are the causes of an ESR of 52 mm/hr?

An ESR of 52 can have various causing including the following

HIV/AIDS

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) can lead to immune system dysfunction and inflammation.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic blood disorder affecting red blood cells.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

An autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs.

Certain Medications

Some medications, such as corticosteroids, can influence ESR levels.

Bronchiectasis

A chronic lung condition characterized by damaged airways.

Inflammation

Any inflammatory condition in the body can cause an elevation in ESR.

Pregnancy

ESR levels can be higher during pregnancy.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Impaired kidney function can lead to higher ESR levels.

Dehydration

Though less common, dehydration can affect blood viscosity and ESR.

Infection

Both acute and chronic infections can lead to an increased ESR.

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections.

Vasculitis

Inflammation of blood vessels.

What are the causes for a falsely elevated ESR value of 52?

There are certain normal or physiological conditions in which the ESR May be falsely elevated or elevated without any abnormality.

Dietary Factors

Nutritional status can influence ESR levels. Dietary factors such as certain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants play a role in modulating the inflammatory response. A well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet is essential for maintaining overall health, including appropriate ESR levels.

Recent Vaccination

Vaccination stimulates the immune system, triggering an inflammatory response. This immune activity can lead to a temporary increase in ESR levels as part of the body's natural defense mechanism. The elevation is usually transient and not indicative of a pathological condition.

Surgery

Postoperative recovery involves a complex interplay of physiological responses, including inflammation. Surgery can lead to a temporary increase in ESR as part of the body's natural healing process. Monitoring ESR levels post-surgery is a routine part of medical care.

Obesity

Obesity is linked to chronic low-grade inflammation, and individuals with higher body mass indexes (BMIs) may experience elevated ESR levels. Adipose tissue releases inflammatory molecules, influencing the overall inflammatory status in the body. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall well-being.

Menopause

The hormonal changes associated with menopause, including a decline in estrogen levels, can impact the inflammatory response in the body. These changes may contribute to alterations in ESR levels, reflecting the natural physiological transition of menopause.

Hormonal Fluctuations

Beyond the menstrual cycle, fluctuations in hormonal levels can occur due to various factors, including stress, medication changes, or natural hormonal variations. These hormonal shifts may influence the inflammatory response and contribute to variations in ESR levels.

Dehydration

Dehydration can result in reduced plasma volume, affecting blood viscosity. This change in blood composition may lead to an elevation in ESR. It's essential to maintain proper hydration levels for overall health and accurate blood test results.

Sun Exposure

Exposure to sunlight influences vitamin D levels in the body, which in turn can affect the immune system and inflammatory response. Changes in ESR levels related to sun exposure highlight the interconnectedness of environmental factors and inflammation.

Ovulation

The process of ovulation in the menstrual cycle involves hormonal changes that can affect ESR levels. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone during ovulation contribute to variations in the inflammatory response, leading to changes in ESR.

Sleep Deprivation

Lack of sleep can be associated with changes in inflammatory markers, including ESR. Sleep deprivation disrupts the body's natural regulatory processes, affecting the immune system and potentially leading to an elevation in ESR. Prioritizing sufficient and quality sleep is crucial for overall health.

Emotional Factors

Emotional stress and psychological factors can influence the body's inflammatory response, potentially leading to a temporary increase in ESR. The mind-body connection underscores the importance of mental health for overall well-being.

Altitude Changes

Changes in altitude can impact oxygen levels in the blood, influencing the inflammatory response. These altitude-related changes may contribute to variations in ESR levels. Adjusting to altitude and maintaining proper hydration are important considerations.

What does an ESR of 52 in pregnancy mean?

The normal range of ESR during pregnancy is different in the different months or trimesters of pregnancy. This is because pregnancy causes a small rise in the ESR, which is considered normal. The following table lists the normal ranges.

Trimester	Lower Limit	Upper Limit
1st	4	57
2nd	7	47
3rd	13	70

Based on these criteria, your ESR of 52 can be classified as below.
If you are in the first three months of pregnancy an ESR of 52 is normal
If you are in the second trimester or months 3-6 of pregnancy an ESR of 52 is elevated
If you are in the third trimester or months 7-9 of pregnancy an ESR of 52 is normal

What are the symptoms of an ESR of 52 ?

ESR itself does not cause any direct symptoms. The symptoms of ESR are due the underlying disease process. The following is a list of symptoms that may be associated with an ESR of 52

Loss of Appetite

Decreased desire to eat.

Mouth Ulcers

Sores in the mouth that may be painful.

Dry Eyes and Mouth

Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome.

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing or breathlessness.

Recurrent Infections

Frequent or persistent infections.

Headaches

Recurrent or persistent headaches.

Cough

Persistent or chronic coughing.

Skin Rashes

Unexplained skin eruptions or changes.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Enlarged and tender lymph nodes.

Abdominal Pain

Discomfort or pain in the abdominal region.

Chest Pain

Pain or discomfort in the chest area.

Muscle Aches

Generalized or localized pain in muscles.

Nausea and Vomiting

Feeling of sickness and vomiting.

Frequent Urination

Increased need to urinate.

Difficulty Sleeping

Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.

Cognitive Impairment

Memory problems or difficulty concentrating.

Dizziness

Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.

Vision Changes

Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.

Depression

Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

Fatigue

Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.

Digestive Issues

Irregular bowel movements, diarrhea, or constipation.

Abnormal Blood Counts

Changes in white blood cell count or other blood parameters.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without intentional changes in diet or exercise.

Hair Loss

Unexplained loss of hair.

Joint Pain

Discomfort, swelling, or stiffness in the joints.

Fever

Elevated body temperature beyond normal range.

Which foods can reduce an ESR of 52 mm/hr?

Based on a study by Hulander et al, eating foods that lower inflammation can lead to a lowered value of ESR. The following foods can be consumed to try to reduce inflammation.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are a key component of the Mediterranean diet, providing essential nutrients and fiber. They contribute to reducing inflammation and promoting overall health.

Fruits

Various fruits, including citrus fruits and berries, are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Their consumption is associated with reduced inflammation, aligning with the Mediterranean diet's focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These acids have anti-inflammatory properties, making fatty fish an excellent choice in the Mediterranean diet to combat inflammation.

Legumes

Legumes, such as lentils and chickpeas, are high in phytochemicals. These compounds have anti-inflammatory effects, making legumes an essential part of the Mediterranean diet for promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Probiotics

Foods enriched with probiotics, like yogurt and fermented products, support a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut contributes to reduced inflammation and improved overall well-being, aligning with the principles of the Mediterranean diet.

Vegetables

A diverse array of vegetables is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet. They provide essential nutrients and phytochemicals that contribute to reducing inflammation and supporting overall health.

What other tests should be done with an ESR of 52 mm/hr ?

For an ESR of 52, other tests can be done to further ascertain the immune status of the body, as well as rule out infections or malignancies if any.
The following table lists other tests that can be done.

Lab Tests Related to ESR

What is the ESR to CRP ratio and why does it matter?

The ESR to CRP ratio is the ratio of the Erythryocyte Sedimentation Rate in mm/hr to the C-Reactive Protein Value. The ratio has value in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. If the value is below 2 it indicates that the patient has an infection in addition to the SLE. If the value is above 15 it is more likely to be a flare up of SLE. You can find the ratio calculated for various values of CRP given your ESR value of 52

What is my ESR:CRP ratio for an ESR of 52 mm/hr ?

ESR	CRP	Ratio	Means
52	1.0	52.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
52	1.5	34.666666666666664	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
52	2.0	26.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
52	2.5	20.8	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
52	3.0	17.333333333333332	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
52	3.5	14.857142857142858	Inconclusive
52	4.0	13.0	Inconclusive
52	4.5	11.555555555555555	Inconclusive
52	5.0	10.4	Inconclusive
52	5.5	9.454545454545455	Inconclusive
52	6.0	8.666666666666666	Inconclusive
52	6.5	8.0	Inconclusive
52	7.0	7.428571428571429	Inconclusive
52	7.5	6.933333333333334	Inconclusive
52	8.0	6.5	Inconclusive
52	8.5	6.117647058823529	Inconclusive
52	9.0	5.777777777777778	Inconclusive
52	9.5	5.473684210526316	Inconclusive
52	10.0	5.2	Inconclusive
52	10.5	4.9523809523809526	Inconclusive
52	11.0	4.7272727272727275	Inconclusive
52	11.5	4.521739130434782	Inconclusive
52	12.0	4.333333333333333	Inconclusive
52	12.5	4.16	Inconclusive
52	13.0	4.0	Inconclusive
52	13.5	3.8518518518518516	Inconclusive
52	14.0	3.7142857142857144	Inconclusive
52	14.5	3.586206896551724	Inconclusive
52	15.0	3.466666666666667	Inconclusive
52	15.5	3.3548387096774195	Inconclusive
52	16.0	3.25	Inconclusive
52	16.5	3.1515151515151514	Inconclusive
52	17.0	3.0588235294117645	Inconclusive
52	17.5	2.9714285714285715	Inconclusive
52	18.0	2.888888888888889	Inconclusive
52	18.5	2.810810810810811	Inconclusive
52	19.0	2.736842105263158	Inconclusive
52	19.5	2.6666666666666665	Inconclusive
52	20.0	2.6	Inconclusive
52	20.5	2.5365853658536586	Inconclusive
52	21.0	2.4761904761904763	Inconclusive
52	21.5	2.4186046511627906	Inconclusive
52	22.0	2.3636363636363638	Inconclusive
52	22.5	2.311111111111111	Inconclusive
52	23.0	2.260869565217391	Inconclusive
52	23.5	2.2127659574468086	Inconclusive
52	24.0	2.1666666666666665	Inconclusive
52	24.5	2.122448979591837	Inconclusive
52	25.0	2.08	Inconclusive
52	25.5	2.0392156862745097	Inconclusive
52	26.0	2.0	More likely to be infection
52	26.5	1.9622641509433962	More likely to be infection
52	27.0	1.9259259259259258	More likely to be infection
52	27.5	1.8909090909090909	More likely to be infection
52	28.0	1.8571428571428572	More likely to be infection
52	28.5	1.8245614035087718	More likely to be infection
52	29.0	1.793103448275862	More likely to be infection
52	29.5	1.7627118644067796	More likely to be infection