High leukocyte levels often raise questions for many people looking at the results of their blood tests. Leukocytes themselves play an important role in the immune system and become the first bulwark against disease. If the number increases, this is usually a sign that the body is working hard against a particular disorder.
An increase in the number of leukocytes can be caused by many factors, ranging from infection, inflammation, emotional stress, to side effects from medications. In addition, some types of blood cancers such as leukemia can also trigger a drastic increase in leukocytes. The symptoms that appear can vary, depending on the cause.
Generally, sufferers will experience fever, feel weak, and complain of not being fit even though they have rested enough.
To ascertain the cause, a medical examination is a step that should not be ignored.
Doctors will usually perform blood tests and review the patient’s condition thoroughly before deciding on action.
