What are the causes and effects of high white blood cell count?

High white blood cell count is typically caused by infections, stress, inflammation, trauma, or diseases like leukaemia, leading to symptoms like fatigue, fever, and infection.

White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the body's immune system. They are responsible for fighting off infections and diseases. A high white blood cell count, medically known as leukocytosis, can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is an infection, as the body produces more white blood cells to combat the invading bacteria or viruses. Other causes can include physical or emotional stress, inflammation due to injury or diseases, trauma, and certain medications. More serious causes include blood disorders such as leukaemia, which cause the body to produce an excessive number of white blood cells.

The effects of a high white blood cell count can vary depending on the underlying cause. If the increase is due to an infection, symptoms may include fever, pain, and fatigue as the body fights off the infection. In cases of inflammation or trauma, symptoms may include pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area. If the high count is due to a more serious condition like leukaemia, symptoms can be more severe and include fatigue, weight loss, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding.

It's important to note that a high white blood cell count is not a disease in itself, but rather a response to an underlying condition. Therefore, treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause. For example, if the high count is due to an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If it's due to a condition like leukaemia, more specialised treatments such as chemotherapy may be required.

In conclusion, a high white blood cell count is usually a sign that the body is responding to some form of stress, whether it's an infection, inflammation, trauma, or a more serious disease. The effects can range from mild symptoms like fatigue and fever to more serious symptoms like frequent infections and easy bruising, depending on the underlying cause.