Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell responsible for preventing infections or any attack on our immune system. The increase in lymphocytes in the blood is a pathology called lymphocytosis. It can come from a lymphatic failure or a viral or bacterial infection and usually presents symptoms such as fever, general malaise, and sore throat. At FastlyHeal, we explain the causes and treatment for high lymphocytes.
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Normal lymphocyte values
To know if the values of your lymphocytes are correct, it will be necessary to do a complete blood count or hemogram. Average values in an adult should be between 1,300 and 4,000 cells per microliter of blood. In the case of children, the values tend to be higher and are between 5,000 and 7,000 cells per microliter of blood.
Medically the increase of lymphocytes in the blood is known as lymphocytosis, and they appear mainly in processes of viral or bacterial infections, as well as some cancer of the lymphatic system. On the other hand, there may also be a decrease in lymphocyte values. This is known as lymphopenia and occurs primarily in people with immunosuppressive treatments by chemotherapy or organ transplantation.
Causes of high lymphocytes
To know the causes of high lymphocytes, we must remember that there are two types of lymphocytosis, polyclonal and monoclonal lymphocytosis. The first refers to viral or bacterial infections, drug allergies, or autoimmune diseases. On the other hand, monoclonal lymphocytosis is related to a lymphoid defect, as in the case of leukemias. However, there are other diseases and conditions by which lymphocytes go up:
- Multiple myeloma
- Bacterial hepatitis
- Mumps
- Measles
- Poisoning with substances such as lead or benzoles
- Diabetic or uremic acidosis
- Treatments with vitamin B12
- Smoking
- Spleen removal
Treatment for high lymphocytes
The first thing to do to treat high lymphocytes will be to identify the causes and type of lymphocytosis through a blood test and other tests that your doctor indicates. In the same way, medications that will treat the infection can be prescribed. Remember that high lymphocytes signify that a more significant problem may be triggered.
The most important points to keep in mind when lowering lymphocytosis will be:
- Diet: sugars, white flour, red meat, dairy products, and derivatives should be excluded. Increase the consumption of vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, whole grains, and foods that contain essential minerals such as zinc and iron, which you can find in some legumes such as lentils and beans. Intake of vitamin C is also essential to improve our immune system. Try not to consume fruits in juice. I prefer oranges, mandarins, and guavas. Lastly, don’t forget to drink a lot of water.
- Reduces stress: it is essential because it generates an imbalance in our immune system, and it is what is tried to recover in the treatment of high lymphocytes. Practice a relaxing activity such as yoga, tai chi, or swimming, and in addition to being active, it will help you disconnect.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.