HomeAnswersInternal Medicinehigh esrWhat is the reson for high Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)?

What might be the reason for high ESR?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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iCliniq medical review team

Published At September 13, 2016
Reviewed AtJuly 27, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My father is 72 years old. His ESR is 102. All kidney, liver and hemoglobin are in the range along with clear chest x-ray. Recently, he had right ribs and collar bone fracture. Also, he was diagnosed to have hemopneumothorax and chest tube was given for that. What may be the possible cause for high ESR?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com. Based on the information provided, the elevated ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) indicates that there may be an ongoing internal issue, but it does not pinpoint the specific problem or its location. It could be related to an infection, inflammation, or low hemoglobin levels. To gain a better understanding of the current health condition, it would be helpful to know if there is a history of joint pains or cardiac problems. To provide a more accurate assessment, I would need to review all the reports, including the ESR value that is over 100, and perform a serum protein electrophoresis to rule out multiple myeloma. Additionally, if possible, please upload the chest X-ray. It's important to note that the search for the cause depends on the individual's medical history and symptoms rather than solely on the investigation results.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

He was very weak almost one month ago and did not like to eat anything. Now, he is able to eat regularly, but cannot walk for even a half kilometer and feels very tired. His BP has become high like 180/80 mmHg. He has no joint pain and there is no history of cardiac problem, diabetes, etc. But, he is hypotensive. I have attached the reports for your perusal.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. I had gone through all the details posted (attachment removed to protect patient identity). He has hypertension and feels very weak after walking. So, he needs to get a cardiac work up done. Kindly do fasting lipid profile, ECG and 2D echocardiogram, which will help to rule out any cardiac issue. Feeling tired of walking can be related to heart disease. Also, check SPEP (serum protein electrophoresis). ESR can be elevated in cardiac problems. Kindly let me know what blood pressure medications he is on. Decrease salt content in the diet and avoid pickles.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

Sure, I will do as per your advice. He has been taking Envas-5 daily for BP.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. I had gone through the data posted. As you mentioned the BP as 180, it means that BP is not in good control on that medication. Kindly mention about this to his cardiologist when you go for an evaluation and discuss on modifying therapy.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Naresh Kumar M.
Dr. Naresh Kumar M.

Internal Medicine

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