White blood cells (WBC) are cells of the immune system that help to protect the body against infections and other diseases. When an infection or inflammation occurs in the body, the WBC count in the blood often increases.

However, if the WBC count remains high for a prolonged period, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.

In this article, we will discuss the causes of high WBC count, the symptoms to look out for, and the treatment options available.

What is a Normal WBC Count?

A WBC count is a measure of the total number of white blood cells in a person’s blood. The normal range of WBC count varies from person to person and may also vary depending on the laboratory that performs the test.

Generally, a WBC count of between 4,500 to 11,000 cells per cubic millimeter (mm3) is considered to be within the normal range for most adults.

Causes of High WBC Count

A high WBC count can be caused by a variety of conditions ranging from mild infections to more serious medical conditions. Here are some of the common causes of high WBC count:.

Infections

Infections are the most common cause of a high WBC count. Common infections that can cause a high WBC count include:.

Bacterial infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and meningitis
Viral infections such as HIV, hepatitis, and mononucleosis
Fungal infections such as candidiasis, aspergillosis, and histoplasmosis

Inflammatory Conditions

Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease can also cause a high WBC count. In these conditions, the immune system is overactive, leading to an increase in the number of WBCs in the blood.

Drug Reactions

Certain medications can cause a high WBC count as an adverse reaction to the drug. Medications that can cause a high WBC count include corticosteroids, lithium, and epinephrine.

Other Medical Conditions

Other medical conditions that can cause a high WBC count include:.

Cancer of the blood or bone marrow such as leukemia and lymphoma
Anemia
Stress
Allergies

Symptoms of High WBC Count

In many cases, a high WBC count does not cause any symptoms and is only detected through a routine blood test. However, in some cases, a high WBC count can cause symptoms such as:.

Fever
Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Swollen lymph nodes
Joint pain
Night sweats

Diagnosing High WBC Count

If your WBC count is found to be high, your doctor will likely perform additional tests to determine the underlying cause. Diagnostic tests that your doctor may use include:.

Blood tests to look for specific infections or medical conditions
Bone marrow biopsy to look for cancer of the blood or bone marrow
Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans to look for signs of infection or inflammation in the body

Treatment for High WBC Count

The treatment for a high WBC count will depend on the underlying cause. If the high WBC count is due to an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antiviral medications, or antifungal medications to treat the infection.

If the high WBC count is due to an autoimmune condition, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medications to reduce inflammation and help normalize the WBC count.

In some cases, if the underlying cause of the high WBC count cannot be identified, your doctor may recommend close monitoring and additional blood tests to monitor the WBC count over time.

Preventing High WBC Count

Preventing a high WBC count involves taking steps to prevent infections and maintain a healthy immune system. Here are some tips:.

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water to prevent the spread of infection
Eat a healthy and balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to boost your immune system
Get sufficient rest and sleep to reduce stress levels and keep your immune system strong
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption as these can weaken the immune system
Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health

Conclusion

A high WBC count is a common laboratory finding that can indicate a variety of underlying conditions ranging from mild infections to more serious medical conditions.

If you have a high WBC count, it is recommended to consult with your doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.