What is Leukocytosis?
Leukocytosis is when there is a higher white blood cell count (WBC) than the normal amount.
Leukocytosis is usually an indicator of an underlying inflammatory, infectious, or neoplastic process.
What are the Symptoms of Leukocytosis?
If there are too many White Blood Cells, it can make blood too thick to properly flow throughout the body. This may cause:
-
Strokes
-
Vision Difficulties
-
Difficulties Breathing
-
Bleeding in areas such as the stomach, mouth, or intestines
Other symptoms include:
-
Fever
-
Fatigue
-
Unintended Weight Loss
-
Diarrhea 3 or more times a day
-
Abdominal Pain
-
Blood and/or Mucus in stool
-
Sweating
What are the causes of Leukocytosis?
-
Infection, usually bacterial
-
Inflammation
-
Leukemia, Myeloproliferative disorders
-
Allergies, asthma
-
Tissue death (trauma, burns, heart attack)
-
Intensive exercise
-
Severe stress
-
Smoking
-
Pregnancy
-
Leukocytosis is usually an indicator of an underlying inflammatory, infectious, or neoplastic process.
Q & A
A: High levels of white blood cells may indicate inflammation which can cause diarrhea.
How is Leukocytosis treated?
-
Treatment of the conditions that are causing the inflammation
-
Antibiotics
-
Treatment of Stress
-
Changing or pausing medications causing Leukocytosis
-
Chemotherapy
Contact our office today if you believe you may be at risk and/or are experiencing some of the symptoms listed above. Our team of doctors will determine the course of treatment that is best suited for you.