A white blood cell count (WBC) of 12.4 is considered slightly elevated. The normal range for WBCs varies slightly depending on the lab, but generally falls between 4.5 and 11.0 thousand cells per microliter (K/µL).
Factors that can influence WBC count:
- Infection: The body produces more WBCs to fight off infections.
- Inflammation: Conditions like arthritis or autoimmune diseases can cause elevated WBCs.
- Stress: Physical or emotional stress can temporarily increase WBC count.
- Medications: Certain medications, like corticosteroids, can affect WBC levels.
- Pregnancy: WBCs are naturally higher during pregnancy.
It's important to note that:
- A slightly elevated WBC count doesn't always indicate a serious problem.
- Your doctor will consider your individual circumstances and other factors to determine the cause of the elevated WBC count.
If you have concerns about your WBC count, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
