Your white blood cell count is an important indicator of your immune system’s health. If your white blood cell count is too low, you may be at risk of developing infections and other illnesses. Conversely, if your white blood cell count is too high, it may indicate that your body is fighting an infection or other health condition. While a high white blood cell count is not always a cause for concern, in some cases, it may warrant medical attention and even hospitalization. how high does your white blood count have to be to be hospitalized.
In this article, we will discuss the normal range for white blood cell counts, the conditions that can cause a high white blood cell count, and when a high white blood cell count may require hospitalization.
Normal Range for White Blood Cell Counts:
The normal range for white blood cell counts varies depending on age, sex, and other factors. Generally, the normal range for white blood cell counts is between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter (mcL) of blood. However, some laboratories may use slightly different ranges.
Conditions That Can Cause a High White Blood Cell Count:
A high white blood cell count, also known as leukocytosis, can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:
Infections: When your body is fighting an infection, such as a bacterial or viral infection, your white blood cell count may increase to help fight off the invader.
Inflammation: Inflammation caused by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other autoimmune disorders can also cause a high white blood cell count.
Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions can cause a type of white blood cell called eosinophils to increase, which can lead to a high white blood cell count.
Cancer: Certain types of cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma, can cause a high white blood cell count.
When a High White Blood Cell Count May Require Hospitalization:
While a high white blood cell count is not always a cause for concern, in some cases, it may require medical attention and even hospitalization. Here are some conditions that may warrant hospitalization:
Infections: If your white blood cell count is high due to an infection, and you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, chills, and fatigue, your doctor may recommend hospitalization. This is especially true if you have a weakened immune system or if the infection is severe.
Cancer: If your high white blood cell count is caused by cancer, such as leukemia or lymphoma, you may require hospitalization for treatment, including chemotherapy.
Inflammatory Disorders: If your high white blood cell count is due to an inflammatory disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, you may require hospitalization for treatment, including corticosteroids.
Conclusion:
While a high white blood cell count is not always a cause for concern, it is important to understand the conditions that can cause a high white blood cell count and when it may require medical attention and even hospitalization. If you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, or other concerning symptoms, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate course of action.
Related FAQs
What is a white blood cell count?
A white blood cell count is a test that measures the number of white blood cells in your blood. White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are an important part of your immune system that help fight off infections and other illnesses.
What is a normal range for white blood cell counts?
The normal range for white blood cell counts varies depending on age, sex, and other factors. Generally, the normal range for white blood cell counts is between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter (mcL) of blood.
What can cause a high white blood cell count?
A high white blood cell count, also known as leukocytosis, can be caused by a variety of conditions, including infections, inflammation, allergic reactions, and cancer.
What are the symptoms of a high white blood cell count?
A high white blood cell count may not cause any symptoms on its own. However, if the high white blood cell count is caused by an underlying condition, such as an infection or cancer, you may experience symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, and other concerning symptoms.