Re: ESR was 40 - What does this mean?
btm66...The ESR test is commonly known as the "sed rate test". And it measures
just how fast the red blood cells settle in the test tube within one hour. Many
things can cause the sed rate test to be high. Among them, inflammation caused
by an infection of some kind, autoimmune diseases, or even cancer. But evidently
the doctor doesn't think it's too serious in your case...because it's been
going on so long and he hasn't talked with you at length about it.
This swelling you mentioned...could it be a goiter? Or is it too far to one side?
You say you are going to an endocrinologist...they treat autoimmune diseases...
and that could be thyroid, lupus, etc.
The sed rate test could very well be high because of the things you mentioned above. If this test was 2 years ago...your doctor should have explained this all
to you. I tell people all the time...who go to doctors....the doctor is working
for YOU....YOU are the EMPLOYER....you can let him go at any time and find a better
doctor. So never be afraid to ask questions. ALWAYS look over your own tests and
if you have questions about anything....ASK! And when you have a medical problem
that is going to be around for a while....learn all about it..inside and out.
There are natural ways to heal pretty much anything.
If I were you...I'd talk with my doctor ... if you haven't already...and ask him
just what he feels is going on with you...and what are his plans to turn it
around.
How long have you had this place on your neck? And what is he doing for the
kidney infection? Don't ever feel like you have to stick with a doctor if he
is not doing you any good.
Hope you have a great day and a better tomorrow! kathryn