I have been experiencing cough and cold for 4 days, with a mild fever between 99 and 100.5F over the last two days, which subsided after taking PCM. Today, as advised by my doctor, I had a blood test. The results show ESR 40, while hemoglobin and platelet count are normal. I am confused about why my ESR is high. My doctor prescribed Azithromycin for 5 days. Is there any serious problem associated with this high ESR?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Shaik Kalam

General Practitioner

MD (Physician)
3+ Yrs

Consult Now

An ESR of 40 can be raised due to infection, inflammation, or recent illness like your current cough and cold. Since your hemoglobin and platelet count are normal, and fever was mild, this ESR is not serious and should settle as you recover. Complete your azithromycin course as advised by your doctor. Stay hydrated and take rest to support recovery. No immediate concern, but you can repeat ESR after 3 to 4 weeks if needed for reassurance. A CRP test helps diagnose any inflammation.

Dr. Shaik Suggests...

Take a ESR Test (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) Test or Take a CRP Test (C - Reactive Protein) Test

Book ESR Test (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) Test Book CRP Test (C - Reactive Protein) Test

Answered 08/09/2025

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