ESR 82 mm/hr means : is it normal, good, bad or dangerous?

In this article we discuss what an ESR of 82 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 82 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?

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 82 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 82

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

Normal Range and Grading for Adult Women : ESR 82

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
>80	Very High

Normal Range and Grading for Children : ESR 82

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

What does an ESR of 82 mm/hr mean?

An ESR level of 82 is considered to be dangerously or alarmingly elevated. You should get immediate medical attention, and a doctor must evaluate all your health parameters to arrive at a cause for this ESR level.Other tests will inevitably be prescribed and a detailed medical history will also need to be taken.

Is an ESR of 82 mm/hr good?

Is an ESR of 82 mm/hr bad?

Is an ESR of 82 mm/hr dangerous?

Is an ESR of 82 mm/hr normal?

What are the causes of an ESR of 82 mm/hr?

An ESR of 82 can have various causing including the following

Lymphoma

A type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system.

Dehydration

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

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

An inflammatory disorder that commonly affects older adults.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

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

Liver Disease

Certain liver conditions can be associated with higher ESR.

Temporal Arteritis

An inflammatory condition affecting the blood vessels.

Tissue injury

Any injury or trauma to tissues can result in an elevated ESR.

Heart Disease

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

Bronchiectasis

A chronic lung condition characterized by damaged airways.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

A chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the joints.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

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

Certain Medications

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

What are the causes for a falsely elevated ESR value of 82?

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

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.

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.

Lack of Physical Activity

A sedentary lifestyle or lack of physical activity can impact overall health, including inflammatory markers like ESR. Regular exercise has anti-inflammatory effects and is crucial for maintaining a healthy balance in the body's immune response.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What does an ESR of 82 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 82 can be classified as below.
If you are in the first three months of pregnancy an ESR of 82 is elevated
If you are in the second trimester or months 3-6 of pregnancy an ESR of 82 is elevated
If you are in the third trimester or months 7-9 of pregnancy an ESR of 82 is elevated

What are the symptoms of an ESR of 82 ?

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 82

Photosensitivity

Increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Nausea and Vomiting

Feeling of sickness and vomiting.

Mouth Ulcers

Sores in the mouth that may be painful.

Vision Changes

Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.

Abnormal Blood Counts

Changes in white blood cell count or other blood parameters.

Neurological Symptoms

Tingling, numbness, or weakness.

Digestive Issues

Irregular bowel movements, diarrhea, or constipation.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Enlarged and tender lymph nodes.

Joint Pain

Discomfort, swelling, or stiffness in the joints.

Recurrent Infections

Frequent or persistent infections.

Loss of Appetite

Decreased desire to eat.

Dry Eyes and Mouth

Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome.

Muscle Aches

Generalized or localized pain in muscles.

Fever

Elevated body temperature beyond normal range.

Depression

Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

Skin Rashes

Unexplained skin eruptions or changes.

Cough

Persistent or chronic coughing.

Frequent Urination

Increased need to urinate.

Headaches

Recurrent or persistent headaches.

Night Sweats

Excessive sweating during sleep.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Changes in menstrual patterns for women.

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing or breathlessness.

Dizziness

Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.

Difficulty Sleeping

Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.

Abdominal Pain

Discomfort or pain in the abdominal region.

Hair Loss

Unexplained loss of hair.

Which foods can reduce an ESR of 82 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 82 mm/hr ?

For an ESR of 82, 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 82

What is my ESR:CRP ratio for an ESR of 82 mm/hr ?

ESR	CRP	Ratio	Means
82	1.0	82.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
82	1.5	54.666666666666664	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
82	2.0	41.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
82	2.5	32.8	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
82	3.0	27.333333333333332	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
82	3.5	23.428571428571427	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
82	4.0	20.5	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
82	4.5	18.22222222222222	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
82	5.0	16.4	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
82	5.5	14.909090909090908	Inconclusive
82	6.0	13.666666666666666	Inconclusive
82	6.5	12.615384615384615	Inconclusive
82	7.0	11.714285714285714	Inconclusive
82	7.5	10.933333333333334	Inconclusive
82	8.0	10.25	Inconclusive
82	8.5	9.647058823529411	Inconclusive
82	9.0	9.11111111111111	Inconclusive
82	9.5	8.631578947368421	Inconclusive
82	10.0	8.2	Inconclusive
82	10.5	7.809523809523809	Inconclusive
82	11.0	7.454545454545454	Inconclusive
82	11.5	7.130434782608695	Inconclusive
82	12.0	6.833333333333333	Inconclusive
82	12.5	6.56	Inconclusive
82	13.0	6.3076923076923075	Inconclusive
82	13.5	6.074074074074074	Inconclusive
82	14.0	5.857142857142857	Inconclusive
82	14.5	5.655172413793103	Inconclusive
82	15.0	5.466666666666667	Inconclusive
82	15.5	5.290322580645161	Inconclusive
82	16.0	5.125	Inconclusive
82	16.5	4.96969696969697	Inconclusive
82	17.0	4.823529411764706	Inconclusive
82	17.5	4.685714285714286	Inconclusive
82	18.0	4.555555555555555	Inconclusive
82	18.5	4.4324324324324325	Inconclusive
82	19.0	4.315789473684211	Inconclusive
82	19.5	4.205128205128205	Inconclusive
82	20.0	4.1	Inconclusive
82	20.5	4.0	Inconclusive
82	21.0	3.9047619047619047	Inconclusive
82	21.5	3.813953488372093	Inconclusive
82	22.0	3.727272727272727	Inconclusive
82	22.5	3.6444444444444444	Inconclusive
82	23.0	3.5652173913043477	Inconclusive
82	23.5	3.4893617021276597	Inconclusive
82	24.0	3.4166666666666665	Inconclusive
82	24.5	3.3469387755102042	Inconclusive
82	25.0	3.28	Inconclusive
82	25.5	3.215686274509804	Inconclusive
82	26.0	3.1538461538461537	Inconclusive
82	26.5	3.0943396226415096	Inconclusive
82	27.0	3.037037037037037	Inconclusive
82	27.5	2.981818181818182	Inconclusive
82	28.0	2.9285714285714284	Inconclusive
82	28.5	2.8771929824561404	Inconclusive
82	29.0	2.8275862068965516	Inconclusive
82	29.5	2.7796610169491527	Inconclusive

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