ESR 62 mm/hr means : is it normal, good, bad or dangerous?

In this article we discuss what an ESR of 62 means, together with its causes, false elevations and whether it is good, bad or normal. We also delve into reasons for false elevation of ESR, and explain the significance of an ESR of 62 in pregnancy. We conclude with the ESR to CRP ratio that can help distinguish an infection from SLE.

What is ESR?

How is ESR measured?

To measure Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), a healthcare professional collects a small blood sample from the patient's arm, typically from a vein. Before the blood draw, the area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infection. The collected blood is then mixed with an anticoagulant to prevent clotting. Subsequently, the blood is placed in a tall, thin tube and positioned upright to allow the red blood cells to settle over a specified period, often one hour. The distance the red blood cells travel in the tube during this time is measured, and the settling rate is recorded. The Westergren method, a common approach to ESR measurement, involves utilizing a specialized Westergren tube for blood collection. In preparation for the test, patients are typically 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 62 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 62

Range	Classification	Comments
0 to 20	Normal
20-80	Elevated	You are here
>80	Very High

Normal Range and Grading for Adult Women : ESR 62

Range	Classification	Comments
0 to 20	Normal
20 to 30	Normal above 50 years of age, slightly elevated below 50 years of age
30-80	Elevated	You are here
>80	Very High

Normal Range and Grading for Children : ESR 62

Range	Classification	Comments
0 to 10	Normal
10-80	Elevated	You are here
>80	Very High

What does an ESR of 62 mm/hr mean?

An ESR level of 62 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 62 mm/hr good?

An ESR of 62 is not a good value. In adults, or children this value is above normal and needs investigating.

Is an ESR of 62 mm/hr bad?

An ESR of 62 is bad in all populations and should be further investigated.

Is an ESR of 62 mm/hr dangerous?

An ESR of 62 is elevated but not necessarily dangerous

Is an ESR of 62 mm/hr normal?

An ESR of 62 is not normal and is classified as elevated.

What are the causes of an ESR of 62 mm/hr?

An ESR of 62 can have various causing including the following

Certain Medications

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

Behçet's Disease

A rare inflammatory disorder causing blood vessel inflammation.

Heart Disease

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

Anemia

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

Lymphoma

A type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system.

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic blood disorder affecting red blood cells.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause elevated ESR.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

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

Temporal Arteritis

An inflammatory condition affecting the blood vessels.

Pregnancy

ESR levels can be higher during pregnancy.

Dehydration

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

What are the causes for a falsely elevated ESR value of 62?

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

Blood Donation

Recent blood donation can lead to a temporary decrease in the number of red blood cells, affecting blood viscosity. This change may contribute to a transient increase in ESR. Understanding the timing of blood donation is essential for accurate interpretation of ESR results.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Smoking

Smoking has been associated with higher ESR levels in some individuals. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can induce inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to an elevated ESR. Quitting smoking has numerous health benefits, including potential improvements in inflammatory markers.

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.

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.

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.

Temperature Changes

Extreme temperatures, whether due to fever or exposure to cold, can affect the viscosity of blood. These temperature-related changes can influence ESR levels. Monitoring body temperature and addressing the underlying cause is important for accurate interpretation of ESR results.

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.

What does an ESR of 62 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 62 can be classified as below.
If you are in the first three months of pregnancy an ESR of 62 is elevated
If you are in the second trimester or months 3-6 of pregnancy an ESR of 62 is elevated
If you are in the third trimester or months 7-9 of pregnancy an ESR of 62 is normal

What are the symptoms of an ESR of 62 ?

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 62

Nausea and Vomiting

Feeling of sickness and vomiting.

Hair Loss

Unexplained loss of hair.

Cough

Persistent or chronic coughing.

Abdominal Pain

Discomfort or pain in the abdominal region.

Dizziness

Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.

Skin Rashes

Unexplained skin eruptions or changes.

Headaches

Recurrent or persistent headaches.

Cognitive Impairment

Memory problems or difficulty concentrating.

Digestive Issues

Irregular bowel movements, diarrhea, or constipation.

Dry Eyes and Mouth

Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome.

Mouth Ulcers

Sores in the mouth that may be painful.

Joint Pain

Discomfort, swelling, or stiffness in the joints.

Difficulty Sleeping

Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.

Muscle Aches

Generalized or localized pain in muscles.

Neurological Symptoms

Tingling, numbness, or weakness.

Abnormal Blood Counts

Changes in white blood cell count or other blood parameters.

Night Sweats

Excessive sweating during sleep.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without intentional changes in diet or exercise.

Fever

Elevated body temperature beyond normal range.

Vision Changes

Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Changes in menstrual patterns for women.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Enlarged and tender lymph nodes.

Loss of Appetite

Decreased desire to eat.

Chest Pain

Pain or discomfort in the chest area.

Recurrent Infections

Frequent or persistent infections.

Photosensitivity

Increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Which foods can reduce an ESR of 62 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What other tests should be done with an ESR of 62 mm/hr ?

For an ESR of 62, 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

Test	Description
High Sensitivity CRP	High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (CRP) test measures inflammation in the body.
LDH	Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) test assesses tissue damage and disease and inflammation in the body
Ferritin	Ferritin test measures the levels of iron storage in the body, as well as the level of inflammation in the body.

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 62

What is my ESR:CRP ratio for an ESR of 62 mm/hr ?

ESR	CRP	Ratio	Means
62	1.0	62.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
62	1.5	41.333333333333336	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
62	2.0	31.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
62	2.5	24.8	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
62	3.0	20.666666666666668	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
62	3.5	17.714285714285715	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
62	4.0	15.5	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
62	4.5	13.777777777777779	Inconclusive
62	5.0	12.4	Inconclusive
62	5.5	11.272727272727273	Inconclusive
62	6.0	10.333333333333334	Inconclusive
62	6.5	9.538461538461538	Inconclusive
62	7.0	8.857142857142858	Inconclusive
62	7.5	8.266666666666667	Inconclusive
62	8.0	7.75	Inconclusive
62	8.5	7.294117647058823	Inconclusive
62	9.0	6.888888888888889	Inconclusive
62	9.5	6.526315789473684	Inconclusive
62	10.0	6.2	Inconclusive
62	10.5	5.904761904761905	Inconclusive
62	11.0	5.636363636363637	Inconclusive
62	11.5	5.391304347826087	Inconclusive
62	12.0	5.166666666666667	Inconclusive
62	12.5	4.96	Inconclusive
62	13.0	4.769230769230769	Inconclusive
62	13.5	4.592592592592593	Inconclusive
62	14.0	4.428571428571429	Inconclusive
62	14.5	4.275862068965517	Inconclusive
62	15.0	4.133333333333334	Inconclusive
62	15.5	4.0	Inconclusive
62	16.0	3.875	Inconclusive
62	16.5	3.757575757575758	Inconclusive
62	17.0	3.6470588235294117	Inconclusive
62	17.5	3.5428571428571427	Inconclusive
62	18.0	3.4444444444444446	Inconclusive
62	18.5	3.3513513513513513	Inconclusive
62	19.0	3.263157894736842	Inconclusive
62	19.5	3.1794871794871793	Inconclusive
62	20.0	3.1	Inconclusive
62	20.5	3.024390243902439	Inconclusive
62	21.0	2.9523809523809526	Inconclusive
62	21.5	2.883720930232558	Inconclusive
62	22.0	2.8181818181818183	Inconclusive
62	22.5	2.7555555555555555	Inconclusive
62	23.0	2.6956521739130435	Inconclusive
62	23.5	2.6382978723404253	Inconclusive
62	24.0	2.5833333333333335	Inconclusive
62	24.5	2.5306122448979593	Inconclusive
62	25.0	2.48	Inconclusive
62	25.5	2.4313725490196076	Inconclusive
62	26.0	2.3846153846153846	Inconclusive
62	26.5	2.339622641509434	Inconclusive
62	27.0	2.2962962962962963	Inconclusive
62	27.5	2.2545454545454544	Inconclusive
62	28.0	2.2142857142857144	Inconclusive
62	28.5	2.175438596491228	Inconclusive
62	29.0	2.1379310344827585	Inconclusive
62	29.5	2.1016949152542375	Inconclusive

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