ESR 59 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 taking a small blood sample from the patient, typically drawn from a vein in the arm after cleaning the area with an antiseptic solution. The collected blood is then mixed with an anticoagulant to prevent clotting and placed in a tall, thin tube. This tube is left undisturbed in an upright position for a specific period, usually one hour, allowing the red blood cells to settle. The distance they travel in the tube is then measured, and the rate at which they settle is recorded. The Westergren method, one common approach to ESR measurement, specifically involves collecting blood in a specialized Westergren tube. To prepare for the test, patients are generally advised to inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are taking, as certain drugs can affect the results. Fasting is not required for ESR, but staying well-hydrated before the test is recommended to ensure a smoother blood draw and accurate results. ESR is a valuable diagnostic tool, aiding healthcare professionals in assessing inflammatory conditions within the body.

What is the normal range of ESR and how is an ESR of 59 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 59

Normal Range and Grading for Adult Women : ESR 59

Normal Range and Grading for Children : ESR 59

What does an ESR of 59 mm/hr mean?

An ESR level of 59 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 59 mm/hr good?

An ESR of 59 is not a good value. In adults, or children this value is above normal and needs investigating.

Is an ESR of 59 mm/hr bad?

An ESR of 59 is bad in all populations and should be further investigated.

Is an ESR of 59 mm/hr dangerous?

An ESR of 59 is elevated but not necessarily dangerous

Is an ESR of 59 mm/hr normal?

An ESR of 59 is not normal and is classified as elevated.

What are the causes of an ESR of 59 mm/hr?

An ESR of 59 can have various causing including the following

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

An autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs.

Obesity

Higher body mass index (BMI) has been associated with increased ESR.

Heart Disease

Inflammatory changes in the cardiovascular system may contribute to an elevated ESR.

Autoimmune Disorders

Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus can cause inflammation and elevate ESR.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

A chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the joints.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic blood disorder affecting red blood cells.

Vasculitis

Inflammation of blood vessels.

Behçet's Disease

A rare inflammatory disorder causing blood vessel inflammation.

HIV/AIDS

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

Certain Medications

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

Anemia

Certain types of anemia, such as sickle cell anemia, can be associated with an elevated ESR.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Inflammatory changes in the lungs can lead to an increased ESR.

What are the causes for a falsely elevated ESR value of 59?

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

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.

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.

Menstrual Cycle

Throughout the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations, especially variations in estrogen levels, can influence the inflammatory response in the body, leading to periodic changes in ESR. This is particularly noticeable during the menstrual period.

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.

Iron Deficiency

Mild iron deficiency can affect the composition of blood, potentially leading to changes in ESR levels. Adequate iron levels are essential for overall health, and addressing iron deficiency is important for maintaining optimal blood parameters.

Genetic Factors

Genetic variations can contribute to individual differences in baseline ESR levels. While genetics play a role, lifestyle factors and overall health also significantly influence ESR. Understanding genetic predispositions can provide insights into an individual's inflammatory response.

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.

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.

Sleep Patterns

Disruptions in sleep patterns, including irregular sleep duration and quality, can influence the body's inflammatory response. Sleep deprivation or poor sleep hygiene may contribute to elevated ESR levels. Prioritizing good sleep habits is essential for overall health.

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.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant hormonal and physiological changes. The increased blood volume, hormonal fluctuations, and immune system adaptations can contribute to higher ESR levels. This elevation is often considered normal in pregnant individuals.

Circadian Rhythms

ESR levels can vary throughout the day due to natural circadian rhythms. The body's internal clock influences various physiological processes, including inflammation. Understanding these fluctuations helps in interpreting ESR results accurately.

What does an ESR of 59 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 59 can be classified as below.
If you are in the first three months of pregnancy an ESR of 59 is elevated
If you are in the second trimester or months 3-6 of pregnancy an ESR of 59 is elevated
If you are in the third trimester or months 7-9 of pregnancy an ESR of 59 is normal

What are the symptoms of an ESR of 59 ?

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 59

Abnormal Blood Counts

Changes in white blood cell count or other blood parameters.

Photosensitivity

Increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Muscle Aches

Generalized or localized pain in muscles.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Enlarged and tender lymph nodes.

Hair Loss

Unexplained loss of hair.

Nausea and Vomiting

Feeling of sickness and vomiting.

Night Sweats

Excessive sweating during sleep.

Fatigue

Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.

Cognitive Impairment

Memory problems or difficulty concentrating.

Dizziness

Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without intentional changes in diet or exercise.

Depression

Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

Dry Eyes and Mouth

Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome.

Cough

Persistent or chronic coughing.

Neurological Symptoms

Tingling, numbness, or weakness.

Abdominal Pain

Discomfort or pain in the abdominal region.

Skin Rashes

Unexplained skin eruptions or changes.

Fever

Elevated body temperature beyond normal range.

Frequent Urination

Increased need to urinate.

Chest Pain

Pain or discomfort in the chest area.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Changes in menstrual patterns for women.

Vision Changes

Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.

Digestive Issues

Irregular bowel movements, diarrhea, or constipation.

Recurrent Infections

Frequent or persistent infections.

Joint Pain

Discomfort, swelling, or stiffness in the joints.

Loss of Appetite

Decreased desire to eat.

Which foods can reduce an ESR of 59 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.

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.

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.

Nuts

Nuts, like almonds and walnuts, are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. They contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects of the Mediterranean diet, supporting heart health and overall well-being.

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.

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.

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.

What other tests should be done with an ESR of 59 mm/hr ?

For an ESR of 59, 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 59

What is my ESR:CRP ratio for an ESR of 59 mm/hr ?

ESR	CRP	Ratio	Means
59	1.0	59.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
59	1.5	39.333333333333336	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
59	2.0	29.5	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
59	2.5	23.6	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
59	3.0	19.666666666666668	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
59	3.5	16.857142857142858	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
59	4.0	14.75	Inconclusive
59	4.5	13.11111111111111	Inconclusive
59	5.0	11.8	Inconclusive
59	5.5	10.727272727272727	Inconclusive
59	6.0	9.833333333333334	Inconclusive
59	6.5	9.076923076923077	Inconclusive
59	7.0	8.428571428571429	Inconclusive
59	7.5	7.866666666666666	Inconclusive
59	8.0	7.375	Inconclusive
59	8.5	6.9411764705882355	Inconclusive
59	9.0	6.555555555555555	Inconclusive
59	9.5	6.2105263157894735	Inconclusive
59	10.0	5.9	Inconclusive
59	10.5	5.619047619047619	Inconclusive
59	11.0	5.363636363636363	Inconclusive
59	11.5	5.130434782608695	Inconclusive
59	12.0	4.916666666666667	Inconclusive
59	12.5	4.72	Inconclusive
59	13.0	4.538461538461538	Inconclusive
59	13.5	4.37037037037037	Inconclusive
59	14.0	4.214285714285714	Inconclusive
59	14.5	4.068965517241379	Inconclusive
59	15.0	3.933333333333333	Inconclusive
59	15.5	3.806451612903226	Inconclusive
59	16.0	3.6875	Inconclusive
59	16.5	3.5757575757575757	Inconclusive
59	17.0	3.4705882352941178	Inconclusive
59	17.5	3.3714285714285714	Inconclusive
59	18.0	3.2777777777777777	Inconclusive
59	18.5	3.189189189189189	Inconclusive
59	19.0	3.1052631578947367	Inconclusive
59	19.5	3.0256410256410255	Inconclusive
59	20.0	2.95	Inconclusive
59	20.5	2.8780487804878048	Inconclusive
59	21.0	2.8095238095238093	Inconclusive
59	21.5	2.744186046511628	Inconclusive
59	22.0	2.6818181818181817	Inconclusive
59	22.5	2.6222222222222222	Inconclusive
59	23.0	2.5652173913043477	Inconclusive
59	23.5	2.5106382978723403	Inconclusive
59	24.0	2.4583333333333335	Inconclusive
59	24.5	2.4081632653061225	Inconclusive
59	25.0	2.36	Inconclusive
59	25.5	2.3137254901960786	Inconclusive
59	26.0	2.269230769230769	Inconclusive
59	26.5	2.2264150943396226	Inconclusive
59	27.0	2.185185185185185	Inconclusive
59	27.5	2.1454545454545455	Inconclusive
59	28.0	2.107142857142857	Inconclusive
59	28.5	2.0701754385964914	Inconclusive
59	29.0	2.0344827586206895	Inconclusive
59	29.5	2.0	More likely to be infection