What You Should Know About High White Blood Cell Count

An increase in white blood cell count [also called leukocytosis] indicates an increase in white blood cell [WBC or white blood cell] production in the body. It is the opposite of leukopenia and the number of leukopenia. The main function of white blood cells is to fight infections in the body that can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. A high white blood cell count in the body may indicate an underlying health problem such as anemia, bone marrow tumors, inflammatory diseases, emotional or physical anxiety, tissue damage, infection, or leukemia. However, further investigation is needed to determine the exact cause of the condition.

The tests performed may vary from patient to patient depending on medical history. For leukocytosis, your doctor is most likely to have a blood test called a complete blood test [CBC]. He or she can determine the cause and appropriate treatment options from the test results. Your doctor can also check the list of medications you are currently taking. If the test shows that the condition is very serious, a high WBC may be a sign of bone marrow disease and you should have a bone marrow biopsy.

High WBC may also lead to infertility in both women. Women with leukocytosis may be allergic to partner semen. Her body can misidentify sperm as an invasive object, thus developing antibodies that can damage or even kill sperm. To overcome this problem, doctors prescribe antibiotics to reduce or even eliminate allergic reaction levels to semen. However, this situation is so rare that you don't have to worry too much.

Leukocytosis can also occur during pregnancy. In general, when a woman is pregnant, WBC in the uterus produces antibodies. White blood cells can mistake the fetus as an invasive object and attack it, causing a miscarriage. Because babies can also carry high white blood cells, pregnant women should avoid some types of meat that may increase the production of WBCs, such as sausages and salami. A healthy diet can reduce the risk of miscarriage and the high WBC of the baby.

Symptoms include fever, bleeding or bruising, dyspnea, sudden weight loss, fatigue, dizziness, pain, or tingling in the arms, legs, or abdomen. If you think your WBC is high, you should immediately see a doctor.