A low white blood cell count usually means your body is not making enough white blood cells. It can increase your risk of getting infections. Common causes include: Agranulocytosis and neutropenia are conditions that cause a low white blood cell count. A blood test can tell you if your white blood cell count is low. Your treatment will depend on what's causing your condition and will often include antibiotics. You may also need specific treatment: Occasionally, infections can lead to a life-threatening condition called sepsis.
Things you can do yourself to avoid infectionsIf you have a low white blood cell count caused by illness or medicine you should take steps to avoid infections. Do
Don’t
Page last reviewed: 11 November 2020 Aplastic anemia occurs when your bone marrow doesn’t make enough red and white blood cells, and platelets. Having fewer red blood cells causes hemoglobin to drop. Hemoglobin is the part of blood that carries oxygen through your body. Having fewer white blood cells makes you more likely to get an infection. And having fewer platelets makes the blood too thin. This means your blood can’t clot the way it should. Aplastic anemia has many causes. Sometimes it occurs for no known reason. Other causes are linked to a previous illness or disorder. Acquired causes may include: History of certain infectious diseases (such as hepatitis, HIV, Epstein-Barr virus, CMV, or paravirus B19) History of taking certain medicines, such as antibiotics and anticonvulsants Exposure to certain toxins, such as heavy metals Exposure to
radiation History of an autoimmune disease, such as lupus Inherited condition Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia occurs when your bone marrow doesn’t make enough red and white blood cells, and platelets. The body's immune system is confused and begin to attack these critical performing cells. Who is at risk for aplastic anemia?Aplastic anemia can occur at any age. But it is more common among teens, young adults, and older adults. Your risk increases if you:
What are the symptoms of aplastic anemia?Each person’s symptoms may vary. Symptoms may include:
These symptoms may look like other blood disorders or health problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How is aplastic anemia diagnosed?Your healthcare provider will take your medical history and give you a physical exam. You may also have tests such as:
How is aplastic anemia treated?Your healthcare provider will create a care plan based on:
Aplastic anemia is a serious illness. Treatment usually depends on the underlying cause. For certain causes, you may recover after treatment. But the condition can come back. To treat the low blood counts, early treatment may include:
In certain people, a bone marrow transplant may cure aplastic anemia. Living with aplastic anemiaManaging aplastic anemia includes working closely with your healthcare provider and following your treatment plan. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any symptoms you are having. You are more at risk of infections so you should:
Key points about aplastic anemia
What does a low WBC and low platelet count mean?Low white cell count (leukopenia) causes an increased risk for infection. Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can result in bleeding. Symptoms include: Bleeding gums. Easy bruising.
What is the most common cause of low platelet count and WBC?One of the most common causes of low platelets is a condition called immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). You may hear it called by its old name, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
What cancers cause low WBC and low platelets?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.
How do you increase your white blood cells and platelets?Foods to Boost White Blood Cells (Immunity). Omega-3 Fatty Acids. ... . Green Tea. ... . Garlic. ... . Fruits And Vegetables. ... . Special Note: Papaya. ... . Nuts And Seeds. ... . Special Note: Brazil nuts. ... . Vitamins B6, B12 & Folic Acid (Folate). |