Will the erythrocyte sedimentation rate increase during a cold examination

A cold may cause an increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, also known as erythrocyte sedimentation rate, may temporarily increase due to inflammatory reactions in the body during a cold, but usually does not require special treatment. As a common upper respiratory tract infection, colds can activate the immune system and promote the release of inflammatory mediators after pathogen invasion. These inflammatory factors can alter the composition of plasma proteins, increase the concentration of macromolecules such as fibrinogen, thereby reducing the repulsive force of negative charges on the surface of red blood cells, making it easier for red blood cells to stack into strings, ultimately resulting in accelerated erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate caused by common viral cold is limited, with values mostly between 20-40 millimeters per hour, and gradually returns to normal with infection control. There is no need to worry excessively when mild erythrocyte sedimentation rate is found to be accelerated during physical examination, but it needs to be judged comprehensively based on other indicators. If a cold is accompanied by bacterial infections such as suppurative tonsillitis or pneumonia, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate may significantly exceed 50 millimeters per hour, often accompanied by changes in inflammatory markers such as elevated C-reactive protein and abnormal white blood cell count. Some special populations, such as those with wind dampness immune diseases, may experience persistent abnormal erythrocyte sedimentation rate after catching a cold, and should be alert to the activity of the primary disease. If high fever, severe cough, or purulent sputum occurs within one week before the physical examination, it is recommended to have a follow-up examination of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate index after recovery.

If an accelerated erythrocyte sedimentation rate is found during a physical examination, it should be analyzed in conjunction with clinical symptoms. If it is caused solely by a cold, it usually recovers on its own within 2-4 weeks. Daily attention should be paid to observing whether there are abnormal symptoms such as joint swelling and pain, persistent fever, etc., to avoid aggravating red blood cell aggregation through intense exercise. Maintaining sufficient water intake during a cold can help improve blood viscosity. If the re examination values remain abnormal, further investigation of potential diseases such as tuberculosis and tumors is necessary.