ESR 66 mm/hr means : is it normal, good, bad or dangerous?

Published Date : 2023-12-05T13:31:03.637Z

Updated Date : 2023-12-05T13:31:03.637+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 66 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 66

Normal Range and Grading for Adult Women : ESR 66

Normal Range and Grading for Children : ESR 66

What does an ESR of 66 mm/hr mean?

An ESR level of 66 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 66 mm/hr good?

An ESR of 66 is not a good value. In adults, or children this value is above normal and needs investigating.

Is an ESR of 66 mm/hr bad?

An ESR of 66 is bad in all populations and should be further investigated.

Is an ESR of 66 mm/hr dangerous?

An ESR of 66 is elevated but not necessarily dangerous

Is an ESR of 66 mm/hr normal?

An ESR of 66 is not normal and is classified as elevated.

What are the causes of an ESR of 66 mm/hr?

An ESR of 66 can have various causing including the following

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

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

HIV/AIDS

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

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

An autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs.

Vasculitis

Inflammation of blood vessels.

Giant Cell Arteritis

An inflammatory disease affecting large blood vessels.

Dehydration

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

Autoimmune Disorders

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

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections.

Liver Disease

Certain liver conditions can be associated with higher ESR.

Obesity

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

Chronic Kidney Disease

Impaired kidney function can lead to higher ESR levels.

Infection

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

What are the causes for a falsely elevated ESR value of 66?

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

Aging

ESR tends to increase with age, and a mild elevation may be a normal part of the aging process. The gradual wear and tear on the body's tissues can contribute to a low-level inflammatory state, leading to a slightly higher ESR in elderly individuals.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Strenuous Exercise

Intense physical activity, especially when not part of the routine, can cause muscle and tissue damage, triggering an inflammatory response. This acute inflammation can lead to a temporary increase in ESR. Regular exercise, however, generally has a positive impact on overall health.

Postpartum Period

In the postpartum period following childbirth, the body goes through a process of recovery and adaptation. Hormonal changes, including a decrease in pregnancy-related hormones, can contribute to temporary fluctuations in ESR levels.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What does an ESR of 66 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 66 can be classified as below.
If you are in the first three months of pregnancy an ESR of 66 is elevated
If you are in the second trimester or months 3-6 of pregnancy an ESR of 66 is elevated
If you are in the third trimester or months 7-9 of pregnancy an ESR of 66 is normal

What are the symptoms of an ESR of 66 ?

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 66

Dizziness

Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.

Fever

Elevated body temperature beyond normal range.

Mouth Ulcers

Sores in the mouth that may be painful.

Night Sweats

Excessive sweating during sleep.

Dry Eyes and Mouth

Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome.

Fatigue

Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.

Recurrent Infections

Frequent or persistent infections.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Enlarged and tender lymph nodes.

Headaches

Recurrent or persistent headaches.

Vision Changes

Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.

Cough

Persistent or chronic coughing.

Chest Pain

Pain or discomfort in the chest area.

Photosensitivity

Increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Frequent Urination

Increased need to urinate.

Depression

Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

Digestive Issues

Irregular bowel movements, diarrhea, or constipation.

Abnormal Blood Counts

Changes in white blood cell count or other blood parameters.

Muscle Aches

Generalized or localized pain in muscles.

Loss of Appetite

Decreased desire to eat.

Nausea and Vomiting

Feeling of sickness and vomiting.

Skin Rashes

Unexplained skin eruptions or changes.

Neurological Symptoms

Tingling, numbness, or weakness.

Cognitive Impairment

Memory problems or difficulty concentrating.

Abdominal Pain

Discomfort or pain in the abdominal region.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Changes in menstrual patterns for women.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without intentional changes in diet or exercise.

Which foods can reduce an ESR of 66 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.

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.

What other tests should be done with an ESR of 66 mm/hr ?

For an ESR of 66, 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 66

What is my ESR:CRP ratio for an ESR of 66 mm/hr ?

ESR	CRP	Ratio	Means
66	1.0	66.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
66	1.5	44.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
66	2.0	33.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
66	2.5	26.4	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
66	3.0	22.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
66	3.5	18.857142857142858	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
66	4.0	16.5	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
66	4.5	14.666666666666666	Inconclusive
66	5.0	13.2	Inconclusive
66	5.5	12.0	Inconclusive
66	6.0	11.0	Inconclusive
66	6.5	10.153846153846153	Inconclusive
66	7.0	9.428571428571429	Inconclusive
66	7.5	8.8	Inconclusive
66	8.0	8.25	Inconclusive
66	8.5	7.764705882352941	Inconclusive
66	9.0	7.333333333333333	Inconclusive
66	9.5	6.947368421052632	Inconclusive
66	10.0	6.6	Inconclusive
66	10.5	6.285714285714286	Inconclusive
66	11.0	6.0	Inconclusive
66	11.5	5.739130434782608	Inconclusive
66	12.0	5.5	Inconclusive
66	12.5	5.28	Inconclusive
66	13.0	5.076923076923077	Inconclusive
66	13.5	4.888888888888889	Inconclusive
66	14.0	4.714285714285714	Inconclusive
66	14.5	4.551724137931035	Inconclusive
66	15.0	4.4	Inconclusive
66	15.5	4.258064516129032	Inconclusive
66	16.0	4.125	Inconclusive
66	16.5	4.0	Inconclusive
66	17.0	3.8823529411764706	Inconclusive
66	17.5	3.7714285714285714	Inconclusive
66	18.0	3.6666666666666665	Inconclusive
66	18.5	3.5675675675675675	Inconclusive
66	19.0	3.473684210526316	Inconclusive
66	19.5	3.3846153846153846	Inconclusive
66	20.0	3.3	Inconclusive
66	20.5	3.2195121951219514	Inconclusive
66	21.0	3.142857142857143	Inconclusive
66	21.5	3.0697674418604652	Inconclusive
66	22.0	3.0	Inconclusive
66	22.5	2.933333333333333	Inconclusive
66	23.0	2.869565217391304	Inconclusive
66	23.5	2.8085106382978724	Inconclusive
66	24.0	2.75	Inconclusive
66	24.5	2.693877551020408	Inconclusive
66	25.0	2.64	Inconclusive
66	25.5	2.588235294117647	Inconclusive
66	26.0	2.5384615384615383	Inconclusive
66	26.5	2.490566037735849	Inconclusive
66	27.0	2.4444444444444446	Inconclusive
66	27.5	2.4	Inconclusive
66	28.0	2.357142857142857	Inconclusive
66	28.5	2.3157894736842106	Inconclusive
66	29.0	2.2758620689655173	Inconclusive
66	29.5	2.23728813559322	Inconclusive