How do ESR rates relate to levels of inflammation

[KatyMac]

As I understand it a high ESR rate indicates a level of inflammation (or infection)

What sort of everyday infections would cause what sort of levels of ESR?

bump

iirc any sort of infection can raise ESR. it stands for erythrocite sedimentation rate. A trip to dr google should help but will probably scare you unnecessarily.

Thanks Grumpystiltskin, I'm pushing for a referral to a rheumatoid specialist so I'm trying to get an idea if my level is 'She has a cold' or 'she needs to see someone'; so I know what line to take with the GP tomorrow