Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is an indicator of blood test . He indicates with what speed under the action of gravitational forces the red corpuscles in the blood are deposited, which is devoid of the property of coagulation. To do this, the transferred liquid is placed in a vertical test tube, and the specialist observes how quickly the process takes place. In most cases, if the ESP is increased by Westergren - this means that there is some disease or inflammation in the body. It is explained by the fact that in this situation red corpuscles stick together, which makes them heavier, thereby increasing the settling rate and increasing the analysis.
Norm of ESR by Westergren
This method is considered rude. He can not tell the doctor clearly about any illness. However, this analysis is an occasion for future research.
The results depend on many factors:
- floor;
- age;
- time of delivery;
- pregnancy;
- menstrual cycle.
Usually, when giving an analysis in women, the indicators are higher. So, for example, men from 10 to 50 years have a norm of 1-15 mm / hour. And the representatives of the beautiful half of the same age - 1-20 mm / hour. After 50 years, the index of ESR increases. The upper limit for women shifts to a mark of 30 mm, and for men - 20 mm.
Increased ESR index
Often, when passing this analysis, it turns out that the results have deviations from the norm. So, for example, if the rate of ESR by Westergren is increased, the cause may be one or several ailments:
- infection;
- malignant tumor;
- problems of the cardiovascular system;
- blood diseases;
- kidney disease.
At the same time, the results may be false due to the intake of vitamin complexes and oral contraceptives. Also influenced by the recent vaccination against hepatitis.
What shows a reduced result of ESR by Vestergren?
Usually such an indicator is the result of an increase in the viscosity of the blood. This can occur as a result of the development of one of the following problems:
- anemia sickle-shaped;
- starvation;
- vegetarianism;
- rapid weight loss;
- poor blood circulation ;
- hyperhydration.
In addition, the analysis is influenced by the use of drugs based on steroids.
It is recommended to check the general health status from time to time with the help of the definition of ESR by Westergren. In this case, it is not necessary to panic if the results do not fit within the established norms. The right thing to do is apply to a specialist who can not only explain the resulting data, but also send it to treatment.