Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
How quickly red cells settle in a tube, a slow general marker of inflammation.
What it is
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate rises when inflammatory proteins make red cells stack and settle faster. It changes slowly, over days to weeks, and is affected by age, sex and anaemia.
Why it matters
A raised ESR says something inflammatory or immune may be happening but not where; it is usually read alongside CRP and the blood count.
This guide is educational only and cannot diagnose you. Discuss results, especially anything outside your laboratory’s reference interval, or that does not match how you feel, with a GP or other appropriately qualified clinician.
This guide is educational only and cannot diagnose you. Discuss results, especially anything outside your laboratory’s reference interval, or that does not match how you feel, with a GP or other appropriately qualified clinician.
How it affects the body
ESR itself does nothing in the body; it reflects the proteins the liver releases during inflammation.
For athletes
Hard training blocks can nudge inflammatory markers; a mildly raised ESR after heavy weeks is worth rechecking at rest rather than assuming illness.
Related tests
No published panels currently list this marker.