What does it mean when the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is high?

In general, an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) may be associated with physiological conditions, tissue injury, anemia, tuberculosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Physiological Conditions

In pregnant women, fibrinogen levels may physiologically increase, which can lead to an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and usually does not require special treatment.

2. Tissue Injury

After tissue injury, microcirculatory disturbances and aseptic inflammation may occur, leading to local swelling and pain. When tissue damage happens, cellular metabolism is affected, which may easily result in an increased ESR along with pain. Patients are advised to rest adequately and avoid excessive fatigue and strenuous exercise to prevent worsening of the condition.

3. Anemia

Anemia refers to a reduction in the number of red blood cells in peripheral blood. When red blood cell volume falls significantly below the normal range, the body's tissues and organs cannot be sufficiently oxygenated. In such cases, fibrinogen levels in the body markedly increase, resulting in elevated ESR, often accompanied by feelings of fatigue and weakness. Under medical guidance, medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, compound ammonium ferric citrate syrup, and ferrous fumarate tablets may be used to improve anemic symptoms.

4. Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a respiratory infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, primarily affecting lung tissue, trachea, bronchi, and pleura. In patients with tuberculosis, active Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes inflammatory damage in the lungs. This inflammation leads to changes in the blood, resulting in elevated ESR, along with symptoms such as prolonged low-grade fever, night sweats, and facial flushing. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as isoniazid tablets, rifampicin capsules, and pyrazinamide capsules for treatment.

5. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis often develops following an untreated or inadequately treated Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection. Due to the systemic allergic reaction triggered by this bacterial infection, inflammation causes an elevated ESR, along with symptoms such as joint redness, swelling, heat, and pain. Under medical guidance, medications such as penicillin V potassium tablets, enteric-coated erythromycin tablets, and leflunomide tablets may be used for treatment.

In terms of dietary adjustment, consuming more foods such as brown sugar, black fungus (wood ear), jujube dates, spinach, longan, and animal liver may help alleviate elevated ESR. Regarding psychological regulation, if elevated ESR is related to mental stress, it is important to manage mood and emotional well-being appropriately.