Still have unexplained high ESR

Bones, joints and muscles
1

Does anyone on here with fibro generally have a high ESR rate when they have a blood test? Ive had a high one for months and the doctors dont seem that worried but I am as ive read it can be linked to cancer and all sorts! Could my fibro be causing this or am I right to be worried? Thanks, Holly

2

ESR stands for erythrocyte sedimentation rate and can be raised in any kind of inflamatory condition.It does not specifically indicate cancer.For instance,your ESR can be raised in the presence of arthritis or even just a common cold and yes it could be your fibromyalgia.If you are worried about this you should ask your GP to explain it to you.Please try not to worry because, as you know,stress will only make your fibro worse.Sending gentle hugs.x

3

Thanks Lily, it's been bugging me for a long time because the docs have said I don't have an infection or inflammation and my rheumatologist said that high ESR isn't linked to fibro so it's left me confused x

4

Hi Holly, no I don't think it can be attributed to your FM. The thing with FM is that blood tests usually all come back normal, which is why FM is a condition of exclusion. A raised ESR can be caused by many things, possibly inflammatory conditions. I imagine it isn't raised by very much, for your docs not to be concerned, but it may be worth asking about it again. xx

5

Thanks for your reply and yep that's what my rheumatologist told me. It should be at a rate of 15 and last time they checked it was at 40

6

Hi holly, I have fibro but also have widespread arthritis and connective tissue disease and my ESR and CRP are always raised. My last test showed my ESR at 67 and the lowest it's been in the past 3 years is 28 but my rheumatologist does not seemed concerned.