Counting white blood cells is an integral part of routine medical checkups, as it contributes crucial information about an individual’s health status. A significant shift in the number, either high or low, could lead to discovering severe health issues that require immediate attention. So, when your doctor mentions that you have a high white blood cell count, what exactly could it signify?
Fundamentals of White Blood Cells
White blood cells, or leukocytes, are vital components of the body’s defense system against infections, diseases, and foreign invaders. They primarily focus on safeguarding the body from invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Normally, not all white blood cells are similar. They differ by the tasks they perform and their physical characteristics. The five main types are neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Hence, you can expect varied white blood cell counts among different individuals.
What Is a High White Blood Cell Count?
Simply put, a high white blood cell count, a condition medically termed leukocytosis, happens when the body produces a substantial number of white blood cells more than the usual. The typical count is usually between 4,500 and 11,000 white blood cells per microliter of blood. It considers a count significantly higher than this range to be high.
It would also help if you understood that a temporary increase in white blood cells, especially after an illness, vaccination, or strenuous exercise, is completely normal and nothing to be worried about.
Causes of A High White Blood Cell Count
The reasons for a high white blood cell count vary. It could be due to one of the following:
1. Infections: Infections, whether bacterial, viral, or fungal, trigger an increase in white blood cells as a natural defense reaction.
2. Inflammatory diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammation of the intestines can cause a surge in white blood cells.
3. Allergic reactions: Severe allergic responses lead to an increased production of white blood cells.
4. Blood diseases: Leukemia, myeloproliferative disorders, and other blood diseases often involve high white blood cell counts.
5. Medication: Certain drugs, especially those used for mental health disorders or chemotherapy, can result in elevated white blood cell counts.
What Are the Symptoms?
Having a high white blood cell count alone does not present specific symptoms. However, the underlying condition causing this increase may prompt several manifestations, such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or sweating.
In conclusion, a high white blood cell count is not a disease by itself but suggests an underlying health problem that needs immediate medical attention. It’s essential to contact your healthcare provider if you suspect a problem with your white blood cell count to get the necessary treatment as soon as possible.