Does Anemia Cause High ESR?
January 9, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Anemia itself does not directly cause a high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR or sed rate). ESR is a blood test that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the bottom of a tube over a specified period. It is a non-specific marker of inflammation or certain underlying health conditions.
While anemia doesn’t directly cause an elevated ESR, some conditions that may lead to anemia can also cause an increase in ESR due to underlying inflammation or other factors. Certain inflammatory conditions, infections, autoimmune disorders, and other health issues can cause both anemia and an elevated ESR.
Anemia can occur due to various reasons, such as iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, chronic diseases, or underlying health conditions affecting red blood cell production or lifespan. These conditions might also lead to inflammation, which can contribute to an elevated ESR.
However, it’s important to note that a high ESR alone cannot confirm the presence of anemia or indicate its severity. Anemia is diagnosed by measuring hemoglobin levels and other red blood cell parameters in addition to considering the underlying cause.
If you have concerns about anemia or an elevated ESR, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can perform appropriate tests, evaluate your condition comprehensively, and determine the underlying cause of any abnormalities in your blood test results.