A white blood cell count is a vital indicator of your immune system’s health. Knowing what constitutes a dangerous white blood cell count and how to manage it is crucial for preventing and treating various health issues. In this article, we will explore the significance of white blood cell counts, the implications of both low and high counts, and provide guidance on how to maintain or increase a healthy white blood cell count.
What is White Blood Cell Count?
White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are essential components of your immune system. They are responsible for fighting infections and diseases. There are several types of white blood cells, each playing a specific role in combating different types of pathogens:
- Neutrophils
- Lymphocytes
- Monocytes
- Eosinophils
- Basophils
A normal white blood cell count typically ranges from 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microlitre of blood, although these values can vary based on age, sex, and the laboratory conducting the test.
Types of White Blood Cell Count
White blood cells are categorised into several types, each with distinct functions in defending the body against infections and diseases.
1. Low White Blood Cell Count
A low white blood cell count, medically termed leucopenia, occurs when the number of white blood cells in the blood falls below 4,500 per microlitre. This condition can weaken the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections. Leucopenia can be caused by various factors, such as viral infections like HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs, bone marrow disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Symptoms of a low white blood cell count may include frequent infections, fatigue, fever, and easy bruising or bleeding.
2. High White Blood Cell Count
Leukocytosis, or a high white blood cell count, is typically diagnosed when the number of white blood cells in the blood exceeds 11,000 per microlitre. This condition can be a sign of an underlying health problem, such as an infection, inflammation, allergic reaction, or certain types of cancer like leukaemia. A high white blood cell count can increase the risk of developing blood clots and may lead to complications associated with the underlying cause. While symptoms may not always be present, they can include signs of infection or inflammation, and in severe cases, symptoms related to the specific condition causing the elevated white blood cell count.
Causes of Abnormal White Blood Cell Counts
Several factors can contribute to abnormal white blood cell counts, either causing an increase or decrease in the number of leukocytes in the blood. Some of the key causes include:
- Infections: Both bacterial and viral infections can impact white blood cell counts. Bacterial infections often lead to an increase in neutrophils, while viral infections may suppress overall white blood cell production.
- Cancers: Blood cancers such as leukaemia and lymphoma can significantly alter white blood cell counts, either by causing an overproduction of abnormal white blood cells or by suppressing normal white blood cell production in the bone marrow.
- Medications: Certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and anti-thyroid medications, can lower white blood cell counts as a side effect. On the other hand, corticosteroids and other stimulatory drugs may cause an increase in white blood cell counts.
- Bone Marrow Disorders: Conditions that affect the bone marrow, such as myelofibrosis and myelodysplastic syndrome, can disrupt the normal production of white blood cells, leading to abnormal counts.
- Autoimmune Diseases: In autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys white blood cells, resulting in leucopenia.
- Trauma and Stress: Physical trauma, severe emotional stress, and extensive wounds or burns can trigger an increase in white blood cell counts as part of the body’s natural response to these stressors.
- Allergic Reactions: Allergies and parasitic infections can cause an elevation in specific types of white blood cells, particularly eosinophils and basophils, which are involved in allergic responses.
Symptoms of Low or High White Blood Cell Count
Abnormal white blood cell counts can manifest in various ways, depending on whether the count is too low or too high. Some common symptoms include:
- Frequent infections, such as pneumonia or skin infections
- Fever, often accompanied by chills and shivering
- Fatigue and general weakness
- Body aches, including muscle and joint pains
- Mouth ulcers that take longer to heal
- Skin rashes and dermatological issues
- Flu-like symptoms, such as sore throat and toothache
- Night sweats and unexpected weight loss (in cases of high white blood cell count)
Diagnosis of White Blood Cell Counts
To determine if your white blood cell count is abnormal, your doctor will likely recommend a series of tests and evaluations. The diagnostic process typically involves:
- A complete blood count (CBC) to measure the total number of white blood cells in your blood
- A white blood cell differential test to identify which specific types of white blood cells are abnormal
- A thorough review of your medical history and a physical examination to identify potential causes
- Additional tests, such as blood smears or bone marrow biopsies, may be conducted based on the initial findings
- An evaluation of your current medications to determine if they could be affecting your white blood cell count
How to Increase White Blood Cells
There are several ways to help boost your white blood cell count, including:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and extra virgin olive oil
- Consuming good quality protein from sources like fish, eggs, poultry, and Greek yoghurt
- Ensuring adequate intake of vitamins B12 and folate, which are vital for white blood cell production
- Consulting with a doctor about taking supplements such as vitamins A and C, and zinc
- Practicing good hygiene by washing hands frequently and avoiding raw or undercooked foods
- Discussing medical interventions with your doctor, such as colony-stimulating factors like filgrastim or pegfilgrastim
| Quick Recipe: For a breakfast that may help manage white blood cell levels, try a calming bowl of mixed fruit and yoghurt. Combine a cup of plain yoghurt with diced papaya, which contains enzymes that may support immune balance. Add a few slices of kiwi and a handful of berries for extra antioxidants and vitamin C. Sprinkle with flaxseeds or chia seeds for omega-3s, which can aid in reducing inflammation, creating a refreshing, nutrient-dense start to the day. |
Treatment for White Blood Cell Counts
The treatment for low white blood cell counts depends on the specific cause. If medication or medical treatments are responsible, adjusting the dose or temporarily stopping the treatment may be necessary. For conditions like cancer, HIV, or autoimmune disorders, treating the underlying disease is crucial in restoring normal white blood cell levels. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to manage infections, while medications such as myeloid growth factors can stimulate white blood cell production in the bone marrow, especially for cancer patients experiencing neutropenia. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate course of treatment based on your individual circumstances.
Conclusion
In summary, maintaining a healthy white blood cell count is essential for your body’s ability to fight infections and diseases. By adopting a balanced diet, practising good hygiene, and following your doctor’s recommendations for medical interventions, you can support your immune system and help increase your white blood cell count. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or starting new supplements, as they can provide personalised guidance based on your unique health status and any ongoing treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A dangerous high white blood cell count, or leukocytosis, is generally diagnosed when levels exceed 11,000 cells per microlitre of blood, often indicating infection, inflammation, or serious conditions like leukaemia.
Increasing WBC count depends on the underlying cause. Treating the illness, adjusting medications, and consuming foods rich in protein, vitamin B12, and folate can be helpful.
To increase white blood cells quickly, focus on nutrient-rich foods high in protein, vitamin B12, and folate. Ensuring adequate rest and managing stress can also help.
A low WBC count (leukopenia or neutropenia) increases the risk of infections, as the body’s ability to fight off pathogens is compromised, potentially leading to severe infections.
If your WBC count is high, identify the underlying cause. Treatment typically involves addressing the root issue, such as infection or inflammation, under a doctor’s guidance.
Fruits rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, grapefruits, and strawberries, can help support immune function and potentially increase white blood cell production. Berries and pomegranates are also beneficial.
Milk, a good source of protein and vitamins B12 and B6, is essential for white blood cell production. However, its direct impact on significantly increasing WBC counts is not well-documented.
Drinks rich in antioxidants and nutrients, such as green tea and fruit juices high in vitamin C (e.g., orange juice), can support immune function and aid in maintaining healthy white blood cell levels.
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563148/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK261/
- https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/white-blood-cell
- https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/white-blood-count-wbc/
- https://www.lls.org/treatment/lab-and-imaging-tests/understanding-blood-counts