What is the most common reason for low white blood cell count?
What is the most common reason for low white blood cell count?
A low white blood cell count usually is caused by: Viral infections that temporarily disrupt the work of bone marrow. Certain disorders present at birth (congenital) that involve diminished bone marrow function. Cancer or other diseases that damage bone marrow.
What happens when you have a low white blood cell count?
White blood cells are produced by your bone marrow to help your body fight infection. If you have fewer than normal white blood cells, you have a higher risk of getting an infection. When you have a low white blood cell count, your immune system isn’t working as well as it should.
How do I raise my white blood cell count?
Poultry and Lean Meats. Foods high in protein, such as lean meats and poultry, are high in zinc — a mineral that increases the production of white blood cells and T-cells, which fight infection. Other great sources of zinc are oysters, nuts, fortified cereal, and beans.
What cancers cause low WBC?
Low white blood cell count. Cancers that affect the blood and bone marrow can also lower the count. These types of cancers include leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
What foods to avoid if you have low white blood cells?
Avoid raw milk, any yogurt or cheeses made with raw milk, and unpasteurized juice. Be sure to wash all fresh fruits and vegetables well. You may want to switch from fresh fruits and vegetables to cooked, canned, or frozen fruits and vegetables during treatment. Make sure that canned foods are safe.
How long does it take for white blood cells to increase?
At this point, you are most likely to develop an infection. Your neutrophil count then starts to rise again. This is because your bone marrow restarts normal production of neutrophils. But it may take 3 to 4 weeks to reach a normal level again.
How can I raise my white blood cells fast?
Citrus fruits Vitamin C is thought to increase the production of white blood cells, which are key to fighting infections. Almost all citrus fruits are high in vitamin C. With such a variety to choose from, it’s easy to add a squeeze of this vitamin to any meal. Popular citrus fruits include: grapefruit.
What are the most common reasons for a low white blood cell count?
Underlying causes for a low white blood cell count can range from benign disorders, such as vitamin deficiencies, to more serious blood diseases, such as leukemia or lymphoma. A truly low white blood cell count also puts you at higher risk for infections — typically bacterial infections. But viral infections also may be a concern.
What are the side effects of low white blood cell count?
The most serious complications of low blood cell counts include: Infection. With a low white blood cell count and, in particular, a low level of neutrophils (neutropenia), a type of white blood cell that fights infection, you’re at higher risk of developing an infection. Anemia. A low red blood cell count is anemia. Bleeding.
What are the signs of a low white blood cell count?
Neutropenia. According to the University of Virginia School of Medicine,a drop in the count of one of the main leukocytes,called neutrophils,is the main sign of low white
What does it mean to have a low white blood cell count?
A low white blood cell (WBC) count is a decreased number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the blood. A low WBC count is referred to medically as leukopenia. WBCs, which are produced in the bone marrow, are an important part of your immune system and your body’s natural weapon to fight off bacteria, viruses and other germs.
