Why is ESR high in females?

Question

Accepted Answer

Women tend to have a higher ESR than men due to hormones, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and differences in body fat. During menstruation the body naturally produces greater amounts of inflammation markers. It can also be raised by anemia, infections, or thyroid disorders. Doctors generally do not become concerned unless the ESR reaches an extremely high level. Pregnancy on its own is enough to increase the ESR. You should always look at other symptoms as well, not just this one figure, before concluding that there's a problem.