Robin Burden answered
Having a high white blood cell count doesn't necessarily mean that you have an STD.
However, a white blood cell count is often the first sign that your body is fighting some sort of infection.
What does it mean if my white blood cell count is high?
White blood cells are a group of cells used by the body to fight infection. There are several different types of white blood cell - each with their own specific role.
When your body is attacked by a virus, bacteria, or other micro-organism, your bone marrow will begin producing extra white blood cells to locate and destroy whatever is trying to harm you.
If a doctor tests your blood sample and finds that your white blood cell count is elevated (a normal WBC count is between 4,500-10,000 per micro-liter), then the first thing they'll look for is a sign of infection (any kind of infection - not specifically an STD).
Often, a doctor who's concerned about your white blood cell count will order a WBC differential test, which will examine the levels of various types of cells. This will help a medical professional determine what type of infection your body is fighting.
Although infection is the most common cause of a high WBC count, the following can also cause your levels to rise:
However, a white blood cell count is often the first sign that your body is fighting some sort of infection.
What does it mean if my white blood cell count is high?
White blood cells are a group of cells used by the body to fight infection. There are several different types of white blood cell - each with their own specific role.
When your body is attacked by a virus, bacteria, or other micro-organism, your bone marrow will begin producing extra white blood cells to locate and destroy whatever is trying to harm you.
If a doctor tests your blood sample and finds that your white blood cell count is elevated (a normal WBC count is between 4,500-10,000 per micro-liter), then the first thing they'll look for is a sign of infection (any kind of infection - not specifically an STD).
Often, a doctor who's concerned about your white blood cell count will order a WBC differential test, which will examine the levels of various types of cells. This will help a medical professional determine what type of infection your body is fighting.
Although infection is the most common cause of a high WBC count, the following can also cause your levels to rise:
- Stress
- Medication
- Steroids
- Arthritis
- Lithium
