ESR 79 mm/hr means : is it normal, good, bad or dangerous?

Published Date : 2023-12-06T13:31:03.637Z

Updated Date : 2023-12-06T13:31:03.637+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 79 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 79

Normal Range and Grading for Adult Women : ESR 79

Normal Range and Grading for Children : ESR 79

What does an ESR of 79 mm/hr mean?

An ESR level of 79 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 79 mm/hr good?

An ESR of 79 is not a good value. In adults, or children this value is above normal and needs investigating.

Is an ESR of 79 mm/hr bad?

An ESR of 79 is bad in all populations and should be further investigated.

Is an ESR of 79 mm/hr dangerous?

An ESR of 79 is elevated but not necessarily dangerous

Is an ESR of 79 mm/hr normal?

An ESR of 79 is not normal and is classified as elevated.

What are the causes of an ESR of 79 mm/hr?

An ESR of 79 can have various causing including the following

Aging

ESR tends to increase with age, and mild elevation may be normal in elderly individuals.

Heart Disease

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

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

An inflammatory disorder that commonly affects older adults.

Lymphoma

A type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

An autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic blood disorder affecting red blood cells.

Behçet's Disease

A rare inflammatory disorder causing blood vessel inflammation.

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections.

Pregnancy

ESR levels can be higher during pregnancy.

Thyroid Disorders

Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can influence ESR levels.

Obesity

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

Giant Cell Arteritis

An inflammatory disease affecting large blood vessels.

What are the causes for a falsely elevated ESR value of 79?

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Stress

Physiological stress triggers the release of stress hormones and inflammatory mediators, potentially leading to a temporary increase in ESR. Chronic stress can have negative effects on overall health, emphasizing the importance of stress management for well-being.

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.

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.

Hormonal Contraceptives

The use of hormonal contraceptives can impact hormonal levels in the body, potentially affecting the inflammatory response. This can lead to variations in ESR levels in some individuals. It's important for healthcare providers to consider these factors when interpreting ESR results in individuals using hormonal contraceptives.

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.

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.

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.

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 79 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 79 can be classified as below.
If you are in the first three months of pregnancy an ESR of 79 is elevated
If you are in the second trimester or months 3-6 of pregnancy an ESR of 79 is elevated
If you are in the third trimester or months 7-9 of pregnancy an ESR of 79 is elevated

What are the symptoms of an ESR of 79 ?

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 79

Fever

Elevated body temperature beyond normal range.

Vision Changes

Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.

Difficulty Sleeping

Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.

Chest Pain

Pain or discomfort in the chest area.

Cognitive Impairment

Memory problems or difficulty concentrating.

Frequent Urination

Increased need to urinate.

Abdominal Pain

Discomfort or pain in the abdominal region.

Night Sweats

Excessive sweating during sleep.

Headaches

Recurrent or persistent headaches.

Dry Eyes and Mouth

Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Enlarged and tender lymph nodes.

Depression

Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

Dizziness

Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.

Abnormal Blood Counts

Changes in white blood cell count or other blood parameters.

Recurrent Infections

Frequent or persistent infections.

Cough

Persistent or chronic coughing.

Neurological Symptoms

Tingling, numbness, or weakness.

Photosensitivity

Increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Hair Loss

Unexplained loss of hair.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without intentional changes in diet or exercise.

Joint Pain

Discomfort, swelling, or stiffness in the joints.

Skin Rashes

Unexplained skin eruptions or changes.

Loss of Appetite

Decreased desire to eat.

Nausea and Vomiting

Feeling of sickness and vomiting.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Changes in menstrual patterns for women.

Fatigue

Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.

Which foods can reduce an ESR of 79 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What other tests should be done with an ESR of 79 mm/hr ?

For an ESR of 79, 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 79

What is my ESR:CRP ratio for an ESR of 79 mm/hr ?

ESR	CRP	Ratio	Means
79	1.0	79.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
79	1.5	52.666666666666664	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
79	2.0	39.5	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
79	2.5	31.6	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
79	3.0	26.333333333333332	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
79	3.5	22.571428571428573	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
79	4.0	19.75	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
79	4.5	17.555555555555557	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
79	5.0	15.8	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
79	5.5	14.363636363636363	Inconclusive
79	6.0	13.166666666666666	Inconclusive
79	6.5	12.153846153846153	Inconclusive
79	7.0	11.285714285714286	Inconclusive
79	7.5	10.533333333333333	Inconclusive
79	8.0	9.875	Inconclusive
79	8.5	9.294117647058824	Inconclusive
79	9.0	8.777777777777779	Inconclusive
79	9.5	8.31578947368421	Inconclusive
79	10.0	7.9	Inconclusive
79	10.5	7.523809523809524	Inconclusive
79	11.0	7.181818181818182	Inconclusive
79	11.5	6.869565217391305	Inconclusive
79	12.0	6.583333333333333	Inconclusive
79	12.5	6.32	Inconclusive
79	13.0	6.076923076923077	Inconclusive
79	13.5	5.851851851851852	Inconclusive
79	14.0	5.642857142857143	Inconclusive
79	14.5	5.448275862068965	Inconclusive
79	15.0	5.266666666666667	Inconclusive
79	15.5	5.096774193548387	Inconclusive
79	16.0	4.9375	Inconclusive
79	16.5	4.787878787878788	Inconclusive
79	17.0	4.647058823529412	Inconclusive
79	17.5	4.514285714285714	Inconclusive
79	18.0	4.388888888888889	Inconclusive
79	18.5	4.27027027027027	Inconclusive
79	19.0	4.157894736842105	Inconclusive
79	19.5	4.051282051282051	Inconclusive
79	20.0	3.95	Inconclusive
79	20.5	3.8536585365853657	Inconclusive
79	21.0	3.761904761904762	Inconclusive
79	21.5	3.6744186046511627	Inconclusive
79	22.0	3.590909090909091	Inconclusive
79	22.5	3.511111111111111	Inconclusive
79	23.0	3.4347826086956523	Inconclusive
79	23.5	3.3617021276595747	Inconclusive
79	24.0	3.2916666666666665	Inconclusive
79	24.5	3.2244897959183674	Inconclusive
79	25.0	3.16	Inconclusive
79	25.5	3.0980392156862746	Inconclusive
79	26.0	3.0384615384615383	Inconclusive
79	26.5	2.981132075471698	Inconclusive
79	27.0	2.925925925925926	Inconclusive
79	27.5	2.8727272727272726	Inconclusive
79	28.0	2.8214285714285716	Inconclusive
79	28.5	2.7719298245614037	Inconclusive
79	29.0	2.7241379310344827	Inconclusive
79	29.5	2.6779661016949152	Inconclusive