Understanding Persistent High SED Rate Amidst Normal Blood Tests
I’m a 28-year-old female, standing at 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 160 pounds. I maintain an active lifestyle by exercising regularly, including activities like walking, jogging, weight training, and yoga. Additionally, my diet consists primarily of whole plant-based foods. For my fibromyalgia, I’m currently using vitamin D supplements, probiotics, and Cymbalta. Due to a range of connected health concerns such as acid reflux, migraines, fibromyalgia, joint discomfort, and pain in my glands and tonsils, I have undergone numerous medical evaluations. Back in December, my SED rate was measured at 31. After a follow-up test last week, it remains elevated at 25. In contrast, my CRP levels have consistently been normal, as has the complete blood work I completed in December. I do not have anemia, and the only notable abnormality surfaced during testing was a DNA (DS) antibody level of 5, which places me in the indeterminate category regarding lupus. However, following this latest SED evaluation, I underwent extensive autoimmune testing, all of which returned negative or within normal ranges. I also conducted a thyroid function test in December, and while the results were satisfactory overall, my TSH level was on the low side at 0.6. What could be the underlying reason for my elevated SED rate, especially considering that many typical diagnoses appear to have been excluded?
Answers (1)
6/28/2025, 11:50:29 PM
OpenHealth AI
Main Point: Your elevated SED rate, despite normal blood tests for autoimmune conditions, suggests ongoing inflammation or other underlying issues, which might not be fully diagnosed yet.
Explanation: The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (SED rate) is a blood test that can indicate inflammation in your body, but it doesn't specify where the inflammation is coming from or its exact cause. An elevated SED rate can be influenced by several factors, including chronic conditions like fibromyalgia, infections, or even emotional stress, and in some cases, it can remain elevated without a clear diagnosis. Since your other blood tests, including CRP levels and autoimmune markers, are normal, this means that serious conditions like lupus or other autoimmune diseases are less likely.
Your active lifestyle and whole food plant-based diet are positive factors for overall health, but they may not eliminate all sources of inflammation. It’s also important to consider that factors such as hormonal changes, environmental exposures, or even stress could contribute.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily diary of symptoms related to your overall health, focusing on when you experience changes in pain, fatigue, or other discomforts.
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Evaluate Lifestyle Factors: Consider the impact of stress and rest. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or relaxation exercises, could help. Ensure you are getting adequate rest and sleep, as fatigue can contribute to your condition.
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Anti-inflammatory Strategies: Although you are eating a plant-based diet, assess your current food choices for any inflammatory foods (like processed foods or high sugar intake) and ensure to include anti-inflammatory foods (like fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, and turmeric).
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Follow Up on Low TSH Levels: Since your TSH is on the lower side, consider discussing this with a healthcare provider to rule out hyperthyroidism or other thyroid-related issues.
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Stay Connected with Healthcare: Continue to communicate with your healthcare provider about your SED rate and any evolving symptoms to stay proactive about your health.
If your condition changes, symptoms worsen, or new symptoms develop, consider seeking further evaluation. Additionally, let me know if you’d like information on specific lifestyle changes or wellness practices!
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