ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
During inflammation the blood contains more of certain proteins, which make red cells clump together and settle faster. ESR is therefore an indirect measure of inflammation. It changes more slowly than CRP, rising over days and falling over weeks, which makes it useful for following a condition over time rather than detecting sudden change.
Why Test Sedimentation Rate, SR?
ESR supports the assessment of suspected inflammatory disease and is used to follow disease activity in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and polymyalgia rheumatica. A markedly raised ESR is one of the findings that supports a diagnosis of temporal arteritis. It is not a screening test: it is non-specific, and both a normal and a raised value can occur without disease.
What Do High Sedimentation Rate, SR Levels Mean?
A raised ESR indicates inflammation somewhere in the body without showing where. Markedly high values are seen with infection, marked inflammation and certain blood disorders. Moderately raised values are common and also occur with anaemia, kidney disease, pregnancy, obesity and increasing age, particularly in women.
What Do Low Sedimentation Rate, SR Levels Mean?
A low ESR is rarely significant. Very low values can occur with a high red cell count, and in some blood disorders. On its own it requires no action.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Unexplained fatigue
- Stiff or aching joints
- A fever that persists
- General muscle aches
- Unexplained weight loss
- New persistent headache or scalp tenderness in older adults
Who Should Get Tested?
- People with symptoms suggesting inflammatory disease
- People with rheumatoid arthritis or polymyalgia rheumatica following disease activity
- People with unexplained fever, weight loss or fatigue, as part of a wider assessment
- Not useful as a general check without symptoms: the result is non-specific
How to Prepare for Your Test
No special preparation is needed. Bring valid ID to your appointment. The sample must reach the laboratory quickly, as the test has to be run within hours of collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ESR and CRP?
Does a normal ESR rule out disease?
Reviewed by
Wellth Team
Wellth
Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.
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The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.