The ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), or "sed rate," measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. When inflammation is present, the cells clump together and sink faster than normal.
Normal ESR ranges can vary based on age and sex, but generally:
- Men under 50: 0–15 mm/hr
- Men over 50 Show Full Answer
The ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), or "sed rate," measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. When inflammation is present, the cells clump together and sink faster than normal.
Normal ESR ranges can vary based on age and sex, but generally:
- Men under 50: 0–15 mm/hr
- Men over 50: 0–20 mm/hr
- Women under 50: 0–20 mm/hr
- Women over 50: 0–30 mm/hr
A higher number suggests more inflammation in the body, which can be relevant to RA activity.
It's worth knowing that ESR is considered a less sensitive marker than CRP (C-reactive protein), so it's usually run alongside other tests rather than on its own.
Importantly, some people with active RA still have normal ESR levels, so it's just one piece of the diagnostic and monitoring puzzle. Always discuss what your specific results mean with your rheumatologist, as they'll look at the full picture.
July 18
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