ESR 86 mm/hr means : is it normal, good, bad or dangerous?

In this article we discuss what an ESR of 86 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 86 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 86 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 86

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

Normal Range and Grading for Adult Women : ESR 86

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 86

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

What does an ESR of 86 mm/hr mean?

An ESR level of 86 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 86 mm/hr good?

Is an ESR of 86 mm/hr bad?

Is an ESR of 86 mm/hr dangerous?

Is an ESR of 86 mm/hr normal?

What are the causes of an ESR of 86 mm/hr?

An ESR of 86 can have various causing including the following

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

An inflammatory disorder that commonly affects older adults.

Thyroid Disorders

Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can influence ESR levels.

Certain Medications

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

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

An autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs.

Vasculitis

Inflammation of blood vessels.

Aging

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

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

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

Obesity

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

Certain Cancers

Some cancers, especially those associated with inflammation, can cause an increase in ESR.

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections.

Giant Cell Arteritis

An inflammatory disease affecting large blood vessels.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

A chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the joints.

What are the causes for a falsely elevated ESR value of 86?

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What does an ESR of 86 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 86 can be classified as below.
If you are in the first three months of pregnancy an ESR of 86 is elevated
If you are in the second trimester or months 3-6 of pregnancy an ESR of 86 is elevated
If you are in the third trimester or months 7-9 of pregnancy an ESR of 86 is elevated

What are the symptoms of an ESR of 86 ?

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 86

Cognitive Impairment

Memory problems or difficulty concentrating.

Cough

Persistent or chronic coughing.

Loss of Appetite

Decreased desire to eat.

Abdominal Pain

Discomfort or pain in the abdominal region.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Changes in menstrual patterns for women.

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing or breathlessness.

Recurrent Infections

Frequent or persistent infections.

Dizziness

Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.

Night Sweats

Excessive sweating during sleep.

Headaches

Recurrent or persistent headaches.

Fever

Elevated body temperature beyond normal range.

Difficulty Sleeping

Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.

Muscle Aches

Generalized or localized pain in muscles.

Neurological Symptoms

Tingling, numbness, or weakness.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without intentional changes in diet or exercise.

Vision Changes

Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.

Fatigue

Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.

Mouth Ulcers

Sores in the mouth that may be painful.

Skin Rashes

Unexplained skin eruptions or changes.

Joint Pain

Discomfort, swelling, or stiffness in the joints.

Frequent Urination

Increased need to urinate.

Hair Loss

Unexplained loss of hair.

Photosensitivity

Increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Nausea and Vomiting

Feeling of sickness and vomiting.

Digestive Issues

Irregular bowel movements, diarrhea, or constipation.

Depression

Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

Which foods can reduce an ESR of 86 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.

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.

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.

What other tests should be done with an ESR of 86 mm/hr ?

For an ESR of 86, 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 86

What is my ESR:CRP ratio for an ESR of 86 mm/hr ?

ESR	CRP	Ratio	Means
86	1.0	86.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	1.5	57.333333333333336	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	2.0	43.0	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	2.5	34.4	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	3.0	28.666666666666668	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	3.5	24.571428571428573	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	4.0	21.5	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	4.5	19.11111111111111	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	5.0	17.2	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	5.5	15.636363636363637	More likely to be autoimmune disease flareup of SLE
86	6.0	14.333333333333334	Inconclusive
86	6.5	13.23076923076923	Inconclusive
86	7.0	12.285714285714286	Inconclusive
86	7.5	11.466666666666667	Inconclusive
86	8.0	10.75	Inconclusive
86	8.5	10.117647058823529	Inconclusive
86	9.0	9.555555555555555	Inconclusive
86	9.5	9.052631578947368	Inconclusive
86	10.0	8.6	Inconclusive
86	10.5	8.19047619047619	Inconclusive
86	11.0	7.818181818181818	Inconclusive
86	11.5	7.478260869565218	Inconclusive
86	12.0	7.166666666666667	Inconclusive
86	12.5	6.88	Inconclusive
86	13.0	6.615384615384615	Inconclusive
86	13.5	6.37037037037037	Inconclusive
86	14.0	6.142857142857143	Inconclusive
86	14.5	5.931034482758621	Inconclusive
86	15.0	5.733333333333333	Inconclusive
86	15.5	5.548387096774194	Inconclusive
86	16.0	5.375	Inconclusive
86	16.5	5.212121212121212	Inconclusive
86	17.0	5.0588235294117645	Inconclusive
86	17.5	4.914285714285715	Inconclusive
86	18.0	4.777777777777778	Inconclusive
86	18.5	4.648648648648648	Inconclusive
86	19.0	4.526315789473684	Inconclusive
86	19.5	4.410256410256411	Inconclusive
86	20.0	4.3	Inconclusive
86	20.5	4.195121951219512	Inconclusive
86	21.0	4.095238095238095	Inconclusive
86	21.5	4.0	Inconclusive
86	22.0	3.909090909090909	Inconclusive
86	22.5	3.8222222222222224	Inconclusive
86	23.0	3.739130434782609	Inconclusive
86	23.5	3.6595744680851063	Inconclusive
86	24.0	3.5833333333333335	Inconclusive
86	24.5	3.510204081632653	Inconclusive
86	25.0	3.44	Inconclusive
86	25.5	3.372549019607843	Inconclusive
86	26.0	3.3076923076923075	Inconclusive
86	26.5	3.2452830188679247	Inconclusive
86	27.0	3.185185185185185	Inconclusive
86	27.5	3.1272727272727274	Inconclusive
86	28.0	3.0714285714285716	Inconclusive
86	28.5	3.017543859649123	Inconclusive
86	29.0	2.9655172413793105	Inconclusive
86	29.5	2.9152542372881354	Inconclusive

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