Which is bigger rbc or wbc

Or you may have this test as part of a routine exam to check your health. The test may also be used to see how well certain treatments are working. Your healthcare provider may order other tests if your CBC results are abnormal. These may include other blood tests, urine tests, and bone marrow or spinal fluid tests. Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, the method used for the test, and other things.

Your test results may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you. Although estimates vary from lab to lab, here are some typical normal ranges for the main parts of the CBC:. Red blood cell RBC count: 3. Hemoglobin Hgb, Hb : Abnormal test results can have many causes.

Some of these causes might not be something that needs to be treated. The most common problem found through the CBC is mild anemia. You may have more testing, depending on how severe the anemia is and whether other problems crop up in the test. The test is done with a blood sample. A needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm or hand. Taking a blood sample with a needle carries risks that include bleeding, infection, bruising, or feeling dizzy.

When the needle pricks your arm, you may feel a slight stinging sensation or pain. Afterward, the site may be slightly sore. Certain medicines might affect your results. Talk with your healthcare provider about the medicines you are taking.

You don't need to prepare for this test. Be sure your healthcare provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. A higher-than-normal white blood cell count usually means you have some type of infection.

White blood cells are multiplying to destroy the bacteria or virus. Myelodysplastic syndrome. This condition causes abnormal production of blood cells. This includes white blood cells in the bone marrow. Cancer of the blood. Cancers including leukemia and lymphoma can cause uncontrolled growth of an abnormal type of blood cell in the bone marrow. This results in a greatly increased risk for infection or serious bleeding. Myeloproliferative disorder.

This disorder refers to various conditions that trigger the excessive production of immature blood cells. This can result in an unhealthy balance of all types of blood cells in the bone marrow and too many or too few white blood cells in the blood.

Some medicines can raise or lower the body's white blood cell count. Author: Healthwise Staff. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

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