WHY ESR INCREASE IN PREGNANCY

What is ESR?

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), also known as sed rate, is a common blood test that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube containing blood. Normally, red blood cells settle slowly, but an increased ESR can indicate inflammation or infection. ESR is a non-specific test, meaning that it can be elevated in a wide range of conditions, including pregnancy.

Why Does ESR Increase in Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the body undergoes a number of changes that can affect the ESR. These changes include:

• Increased blood volume: The body produces more blood during pregnancy to support the growing fetus. This increased blood volume can dilute the red blood cells, making them settle more slowly.

• Increased fibrinogen levels: Fibrinogen is a protein that helps blood to clot. During pregnancy, fibrinogen levels increase, which can also slow the settling of red blood cells.

• Increased inflammatory mediators: Pregnancy is a state of chronic inflammation, as the body's immune system works to protect the fetus from infection. This inflammation can lead to an increased production of inflammatory mediators, which can also elevate the ESR.

What Does an Increased ESR in Pregnancy Mean?

An increased ESR during pregnancy can be a sign of a number of conditions, including:

• Normal pregnancy: In most cases, an increased ESR during pregnancy is simply a normal physiological response to the changes that are occurring in the body.

• Infection: An increased ESR can also be a sign of infection, such as a urinary tract infection or a respiratory infection.

• Inflammation: An increased ESR can also be a sign of inflammation, such as pre-eclampsia or placental abruption.

• Blood disorders: In rare cases, an increased ESR can be a sign of a blood disorder, such as anemia or leukemia.

When Should I Be Concerned About an Increased ESR During Pregnancy?

An increased ESR during pregnancy is not always a cause for concern. However, you should talk to your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms in addition to an increased ESR:

• Fever
• Chills
• Abdominal pain
• Vaginal bleeding
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting

How is an Increased ESR Treated During Pregnancy?

The treatment for an increased ESR during pregnancy will depend on the underlying cause. If the increased ESR is due to a normal pregnancy, no treatment is necessary. If the increased ESR is due to an infection, treatment will be aimed at treating the infection. If the increased ESR is due to inflammation, treatment will be aimed at reducing the inflammation.

Conclusion

An increased ESR during pregnancy is a common finding. In most cases, it is simply a normal physiological response to the changes that are occurring in the body. However, it can also be a sign of infection, inflammation, or a blood disorder. If you have an increased ESR during pregnancy, talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and to get appropriate treatment.

FAQs

1. What is a normal ESR during pregnancy?

A normal ESR during pregnancy is typically between 0 and 20 mm/hr.

2. What are some causes of an increased ESR during pregnancy?

Some causes of an increased ESR during pregnancy include normal pregnancy, infection, inflammation, and blood disorders.

3. What symptoms might I have if I have an increased ESR during pregnancy?

Symptoms of an increased ESR during pregnancy can include fever, chills, abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

4. How is an increased ESR treated during pregnancy?

The treatment for an increased ESR during pregnancy will depend on the underlying cause.

5. When should I be concerned about an increased ESR during pregnancy?

You should be concerned about an increased ESR during pregnancy if you have any of the following symptoms in addition to an increased ESR: fever, chills, abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, headache, nausea, and vomiting.