What is the reason for the increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate

The increase of erythrocyte sedimentation rate may be caused by infectious diseases, rheumatic immune disease, anemia, malignant tumor, physiological factors, etc.

1. infectious diseases:

Bacterial or viral infection can stimulate the body to produce inflammatory reaction, promote the liver to synthesize fibrinogen and other acute phase reactive proteins, resulting in the reduction of negative charges on the surface of red blood cells and easier aggregation and sedimentation. Commonly seen in diseases such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, tuberculosis, etc., targeted use of antibiotics or antiviral drugs is required after confirming the type of infection through blood routine, C-reactive protein, and other tests. 2. Rheumatoid and immune diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and other diseases can produce a large number of immune complexes and inflammatory mediators, altering the composition of plasma proteins. These patients usually have symptoms such as joint swelling and pain, morning stiffness, etc. They need to undergo specialized testing for anti nuclear antibodies, rheumatoid factors, etc. Treatment mainly includes immunosuppressants and anti-inflammatory drugs.

3. Anemia: When hemoglobin concentration decreases, the number of red blood cells relatively decreases, and the resistance to sinking in the plasma decreases. Patients with iron deficiency anemia, hemolytic anemia, and other conditions may experience fatigue, pale complexion, and other symptoms. It is necessary to complete examinations such as iron metabolism and reticulocyte count, and supplement iron supplements, vitamin B12, or receive etiological treatment according to the type of anemia.

4. Malignant tumors:

Cytokines secreted by tumor cells can interfere with hematopoietic function and trigger chronic inflammatory reactions, which are more common in hematological tumors such as lymphoma and multiple myeloma. The patient may have weight loss and lymph node enlargement, and diagnosis should be made through bone marrow puncture and imaging examination, followed by chemotherapy or targeted therapy.

5. Physiological factors:

Women may experience mild increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate during menstruation, mid to late pregnancy, and the elderly, which is related to changes in hormone levels or natural increase in plasma fibrinogen. If there are no other abnormal indicators or symptoms in this type of situation, it usually does not require special treatment, and it is recommended to have regular follow-up monitoring. When the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is found to increase, it should be judged comprehensively based on other laboratory tests and clinical manifestations. Pay attention to daily observation for symptoms such as fever, joint pain, and abnormal bleeding, and avoid vigorous exercise and high-fat diet. It is recommended to increase the intake of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C to improve microcirculation. Anemia patients can consume iron supplements such as animal liver and spinach appropriately. It is recommended that people over 60 years old have their blood routine and inflammation indicators rechecked every 3-6 months, and women of childbearing age should avoid menstrual testing. If there is a sustained abnormal increase or other discomfort, further screening for tumor markers, autoantibodies, etc. should be conducted in a timely manner.