Leukocytosis and leukopenia during pregnancy

Leukocytes in the blood during pregnancy can increase for various reasons. At once it is worth noting that the leukocytes perform a protective function in the body of any person. They do not allow infections and bacteria to cause serious harm. Therefore, a sharp increase in white blood cells indicates the presence of an inflammatory process in the body.

[1], [2], [3], [4]

The causes of an increase in white blood cells in the blood during pregnancy

Call a sharp increase in the rate of respiratory disease. Most often it's bronchitis and pneumonia. This condition is characterized by the presence of certain symptoms, namely, temperature and cough. A dangerous disease is meningitis. It is characterized by inflammation of the membrane of the brain or spinal cord. Often, the level of leukocytes is affected by otitis, characterized by severe pain in the ear, as well as a decrease in hearing and the release of pus.

Acute infections such as cholecystitis, appendicitis and pyelonephritis cause a sharp jump in rates. This can include purulent infections, such as peritonitis, abscesses, as well as inflammatory bowel diseases. If earlier some operations were performed or injuries were received, then the level of leukocytes responds, therefore, to damage. Even dehydration of the body can make a contribution.

Very rarely the problem occurs in the presence of leukemia. They are a group of malignant diseases that cover hematopoietic systems. Other oncological diseases belong to this category.

In addition to all the above, the level of leukocytes during pregnancy can vary due to the presence of an inflammatory process in the body. To cause such a state are capable of bacterial and viral infections, large blood loss, allergic reactions, anemia and liver disease. It has been proven that the indicator affects the end of the gestation period, muscle tension, burns, injuries and pain sensations.

Pathogenesis

There are several basic mechanisms for the emergence of this state. A sharp increase in the production of leukocytes in the hematopoietic organs. This condition is characterized by an increase in leukopoiesis of a reactive nature. As a result, the mitotic and reserve pool of leukocytes increases directly in the bone marrow.

Blood cells can actively leave the bone marrow because of increased permeability of the barrier. It happens under the influence of glycocorticoids. Often this process is due to the increased proteolysis of the envelope that surrounds the islet of granulopoiesis.

Another mechanism, this redistribution of leukocytes, which occurred as a result of mobilization from the edge pool into a circulating one. This can be caused by the introduction of adrenaline, emotional stress.

Often this condition is combined with impaired maturation of cells in the bone marrow. Affect all is capable of reactive hyperplasia of leukopoietic tissue. This condition is characterized by an increase in the functional activity of leukocytes. As a result, there is a sharp increase in the protective functions of the body.

Symptoms

This condition can not be called an independent disease. The fact is that his symptoms closely overlap with many other processes in the body. And finally, the signs completely depend on the problem, as a result of which the level of blood cells changed.

In children, this condition is generally asymptomatic. Therefore, doctors are recommended to parents as often as possible to take a blood test for examination. This will allow you to notice a deviation at an early stage. After all, the most dangerous manifestation of this condition is malignant neoplasm.

A pregnant girl may also not feel any symptoms. But nevertheless, at a leap of a level of leukocytes the certain dyscomfort is present. There may be weakness, fatigue, high fever, increased sweating. Often there are hemorrhages, bruises, bruises. A woman may be dizzy, fainting, shortness of breath. At such symptomatology it is necessary to address immediately to the doctor.

First signs

This condition is often accompanied by a number of symptoms. It is characterized by the presence of malaise, fatigue and moderate hyperthermia. Often, a woman is pestered with excessive sweating, as well as dizziness. There is a loss of appetite. In some cases, there may be a decrease in vision, as well as sleep disorders. Possible weight loss, pain in joints and muscles.

All of the above symptoms are closely related to serious abnormalities in the body. They can be due to the presence of a variety of inflammatory processes. Diagnosis of the true cause is possible only after certain diagnostic studies have been carried out. A special danger among all the signs is the increase in temperature. This process indicates the presence of inflammation.

There are cases when the problem does not manifest itself in any way, but it does exist. There is everything because of certain deviations, after a certain time all can be adjusted independently. Treatment is not necessary.

[5], [6], [7], [8]

Effects

Even though the reason for the appearance of this deviation may be insignificant and not dangerous, the risk of development of consequences is still preserved. First of all, a young mother can "earn" herself a chronic illness. Eliminate it is no longer possible, you will have to periodically support it.

There is a risk of serious pathologies in the baby. The most dangerous consequence is the termination of pregnancy. In order to avoid such consequences, a young mother needs to systematically take blood tests, urine and a smear. This will allow you to see any deviations in the early stages. The earlier the problem was detected, the more favorable the course.

A leap in the level of leukocytes in one direction or another can lead to the onset of premature birth. Therefore, deviate from the advice of a doctor is not necessary. It is necessary to perform everything exactly according to its instructions.

Complications

One of the complications of this condition can be increased symptomatology of the process, which caused changes in the white blood cell count. Simply put, the existing disease can flow into a chronic form.

If a woman suffers from chronic pathological processes, then she needs to prepare for periods of exacerbation. They are characterized by an increase in general symptoms. If you do not attend a woman's consultation and do not go to see a doctor, the presence of an inflammatory process can negatively affect the baby's condition. So, there is a risk of infection, as well as a threat of miscarriage. All these complications should at least alert the woman.

Avoid them simply, it is enough to constantly visit a doctor and follow his recommendations. Time-tested tests are a guarantee of safety. This will make it possible to suspect the presence of an inflammatory process at an early stage and to eliminate it.

[9], [10]

The norm of leukocytes in the blood during pregnancy

In the blood of a person in a normal state is from 4 to 8.8 × ^{10 9} / L leukocytes. Their content may depend on many factors. Thus, seasonal and climatic conditions, the use of certain products, and also the age of a person exert special influence. The number of blood cells is affected by the time of day, physical and mental activity, as well as the presence of the disease. Naturally, leukocytes are able to actively change during pregnancy.

In order to determine the presence of a pathological process in the body, it is enough to simply calculate the percentage of leukocytes according to a special formula. This will give an accurate leukogram. Usually such calculations are performed by the doctor who observes the patient.

For a pregnant girl, raising the level of blood cells is the norm. But in some cases it indicates the presence of a serious inflammatory process. For such a state, from 4.0 to 11.0 units to 15.0 x 10 in 9 / l is characteristic. This is due to the activation of the body's defenses, as well as an increased degree of erythrocyte sedimentation.

Reduced leukocytes in the blood during pregnancy

This state is not so common. But, despite this, there are a number of reasons that contribute to this state of affairs. Basically, the low level of blood cells is associated with infectious and viral diseases. It can be rubella, the presence of influenza, measles, malaria or viral hepatitis. For a pregnant mother, such diseases are simply unacceptable. The condition can carry a threat to the life of the baby. Because how to treat the future mother will have serious medications.

Low level of leukocytes occurs in colitis, gastritis, kidney failure. Influence on the indicator can be radiation sickness, the presence of problems with the endocrine system, as well as purulent disorders.

Due to the fact that the level of blood cells begins to change, future mothers should take the test constantly. This will allow you to notice changes at an early stage and eliminate the problem itself. In this case, no negative consequences are not terrible.

Diagnostics

As soon as strange symptoms appear, you should immediately seek help from a doctor. The first thing to do is to visit a gynecologist and tell him about the pestering problem. Usually, this is followed by the delivery of tests. It is necessary to determine the level of leukocytes. Based on the findings, the patient is sent for additional examinations. It is necessary to identify the true cause of this condition and weigh the possible risk.

In order to make the correct diagnosis, it is required to visit the infectious disease doctor and allergist. This will reveal the true cause of this state.

Diagnostic examinations may include a number of activities. As mentioned above, the first step is a general blood test. Then resort to the help of the developed analysis of a blood. Then a smear of peripheral blood is carried out. A bone marrow and lymph node biopsy is done. But such techniques are used only in extreme cases. A similar requirement is advanced to a biopsy of the spleen and liver.

[11], [12], [13], [14], [15]

Analyzes

Cellular immunity is the work of specific cells that perform protective functions. As soon as the moment of danger comes, they mobilize their forces and increase the number of cells. That is why there is an increase in the level of leukocytes. After all, to combat the inflammatory process, there must be a lot of them.

Deviation of blood cells from normal upward was called leukocytosis, down - leukopenia. The causes of this phenomenon can be both physiological and pathological. Therefore, it is necessary to constantly undergo examination and donate blood for tests.

An increase in the level of leukocytes can be observed after eating. Therefore, it is necessary to give an overall blood test on an empty stomach. A woman simply needs to visit the laboratory, take the material for the examination and wait for the results. Thanks to him, a number of unfavorable events can be prevented.

[16], [17], [18], [19], [20], [21], [22]

Instrumental diagnostics

With the diagnostic purpose, different types of research are used. Thus, ultrasound (ultrasound) of the abdominal organs is widely used. This will allow to notice all kinds of neoplasms or any pathological processes. The technique is characterized by high efficiency and safety. It is based on the ability of the body to reflect sound waves. This process is perceived by a special sensor and after processing by a computer, displays the image on the screen.

In addition to ultrasound, often resort to the help of Doppler. This technique is also based on the principle of ultrasonic waves. It allows you to accurately observe the presence and speed of blood flow. The principle of the method is based on the emission of ultrasonic waves reflected in each test vessel. Depending on the damage, the affected area will change color. This is a very convenient way of diagnosing.

Differential diagnostics

This method of diagnosis includes two types of blood tests. The most simple and informative is a general blood test. It will accurately and quickly determine the cellular composition of peripheral blood. The material is taken in the morning, on an empty stomach. Naturally, the whole event should be held in a specially equipped office. As a rule, blood is taken from the ring finger of the left hand. To do this, the tip of the finger is carefully treated with alcohol impregnated cotton. Then a puncture to a depth of 2-4 mm is made. The resulting blood is transferred to a test tube. This method allows you to count the number of blood cells, reticulocytes, the total amount of hemoglobin, hematocrit.

Biochemical blood analysis is another mandatory form of differential diagnosis. Thanks to him you can determine the amount of substances in the blood. The material is taken from the ulnar or radial saphenous vein. For this, the patient must sit on a chair and put his hand on the back. The nurse pulls the limb with a tourniquet, and ask the person to work with the fist. Once the location of the vein is certain, the place of blood collection is treated with alcohol. The resulting material is transferred to a test tube.

[23], [24], [25], [26], [27], [28]

Treatment of leukopenia in pregnancy

In this situation, the patient herself must assist doctors. This statement implies compliance with all prescriptions, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating only the right food.

Treatment of the problem is aimed at eliminating the disease itself. Most often they resort to various medications. In order to eliminate the inflammatory process, it is recommended to pay attention to steroid and antihistamines. Most often, they resort to the help of Leucogen, Pentoxyl and Filgrastim.

If the sharp decrease in the level of leukocytes was caused by the presence of malignant neoplasm, chemotherapy is used. For her, certain drugs are prescribed, which the doctor prescribes, depending on the condition of the person.

They also resort to leukopheresis. This procedure allows you to extract leukocytes from the blood, and the purified blood is then poured back into the patient. This procedure is very rarely prescribed.

Treatment of leukocytosis in pregnancy

Nutrition for this type of pathological process should be special. It is desirable to completely exclude fatty foods, including meat and fish. It's worth to look to seafood. Mussels and oysters are especially beneficial. They contain in their composition a lot of B vitamins and useful amino acids. On the table, there should always be asparagus, celery and spinach. Prefer the need for Brussels sprouts and broccoli. It is necessary to eat dairy products and cheeses. To include in a diet follows peas, a pumpkin, a string bean.

In addition to healthy nutrition, it is worth using and special medications. They will allow to eliminate the inflammatory process and improve the general condition of the patient. Particular preference is given to antifungal drugs, such as Cefix and Ceftriaxone. In some cases, specific therapy is required, which is discussed directly with the attending physician.

Medications

The intake of certain medications is completely dependent on the condition of the woman and the level of leukocytes. So, with a significant reduction in the level of blood cells actively used drugs such as Leukeran, Pentoxil and Filgrastim. If the level opposite is too high, preference is given to Cefix and Ceftriaxone. When choosing a particular drug, a possible positive effect is compared with the risk for the baby. In the early stages of pregnancy, taking any medication is prohibited.

• Leukeran. This tool allows you to eliminate the tumor and does not allow the problem to spread to neighboring organs and systems. Dosage is individual. During the use of this tool, pregnancy may be terminated, they are highly toxic. Contraindications: pregnancy, the period of breastfeeding, a violation of the functionality of the liver and kidneys, hypersensitivity. Side effects: it is more capable to cause a nausea, vomiting, delicacy, fast fatigue. The remedy is used extremely rarely.
• Pentoxyl. The drug is applied 3-4 times a day, 200-400 mg. It is advisable to use it before eating. Duration of treatment is prescribed by a doctor. Contraindications: leukemia, hypersensitivity, malignant neoplasms of the bone marrow. Side effects: headache, dizziness, allergic reactions.
• Filgrastim. The agent is administered subcutaneously or into a vein. For one kilogram of body weight, 5 mg of the drug is used. Dosage should be calculated by a doctor, based on the characteristics of the affected organism. Contraindications: hypersensitivity, impaired liver and kidney function. Side effects: increased pressure, muscle pain.
• Cefix. The drug is applied in the amount of one capsule at night. Reception single. Contraindications: hypersensitivity, children's age. Side effects: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, impaired liver and kidney function.
• Ceftriaxone. The drug is used intramuscularly or intravenously. Dosage is appointed by the attending physician. In the pure form of the drug is not used. Contraindications: hypersensitivity, hepatic-renal failure. Side effects: nausea, vomiting, angioedema, candidiasis. Alternative treatment

If the blood has a reduced number of white blood cells, you can correct the situation by alternative medicine. There are several effective ways to get rid of the annoying problem once and for all.

Green bean beans easily raise the level of blood cells. To do this, it is enough to squeeze the juice out of the ingredient and take it two teaspoons each morning on an empty stomach. The remedy is applied up to 5 times a day.

Pollen. Pay attention to those ingredients, which contain a large number of proteins, fats and amino acids. Such a rich content can have any pollen. It's enough to just take it and mix it with one piece of honey. The remedy is insisted for 3 days, then it is taken.

If a woman suffers from an increased number of white blood cells, it is necessary to resort to the help of melissa leaves. You need to consume them in the form of a decoction. To do this, take the main ingredient in the amount of 200 grams and pour 400 ml of boiling water. To insist means it is necessary during 2 hours. As soon as it cools, you can start using it. It is enough to use it on one tablespoon 2-3 times a day.

Herbal Treatment

Lowering the level of white blood cells will help herbal powder. For its preparation it is necessary to take a field horsetail, motherwort and sporish. All these ingredients are ground into powder. After that, 6 pieces of horsetail, 3 parts of the motherwort and 4 parts of the sporicha are taken. Take them you need half a teaspoon 3 times a day. It is possible to add powder to vegetable salads.

The bitter wormwood helps to cope with the high level of blood cells. It is necessary to take the main ingredient and grind it. Then take three tablespoons of this raw material, and poured 600 milliliters of boiling water. After that, the agent should be allowed to stand for an hour, as soon as it is ready to take 15 drops before eating.

With an increased level of white blood cells, attention should be paid to the decoction of St. John's wort. It gives an incredible effect. To prepare an effective product, take 2 tablespoons of the main ingredient and pour 200 ml of boiling water over them. Then let it brew for 20 minutes. Then the broth is divided into three parts and taken 3 times a day for 30 minutes before meals.

Homeopathy

Homeopathic remedies are one of the most effective in combating many problems. They are able to favorably influence the body as a whole and thereby normalize all processes occurring in it. You can use homeopathic remedies alone or in combination with other methods of treatment.

To pick up a homeopathic preparation the doctor will help. Independently to resort to the help of such treatment it is not necessary. The means themselves do not carry any danger. But due to the fact that they have not been clinically examined, everything, however, entails some kind of threat. After all, it is not known how they can affect the developing organism.

They are completely safe in their composition. There is no place for chemistry and dangerous additives. At the heart of each homeopathic preparation lie plant components, as well as substances of mineral and animal origin. Homeopathic remedies can reduce inflammation and normalize the condition of a pregnant woman. Consult about the choice of this or that drug directly with the doctor.

Prevention

Prevention of leukocytosis includes several specific rules. So, the first thing you should not allow the development of infectious and bacterial infections. If they are detected, immediate measures should be taken to eliminate the inflammatory processes. In addition, it is necessary to take tests on time and always follow the doctor's recommendations. In no case should not be allowed to reduce immunity. Finally, preventive examinations in patients should be constantly carried out.

Prevention of leukopenia also contains several basic rules that need to be adhered to. It is necessary to monitor the condition of internal organs. Especially for the liver, kidneys and glands. If the pathology was caused by taking certain medications, you need to limit their intake. It is also necessary to revise the food. It is desirable to eat less carbohydrates. Preference is given to proteins, herbs and fruits.

Forecast

With leukopenia, the prognosis is not always favorable. Everything depends on the stage at which the deviation from the norm was observed. Naturally, a huge role is played by the reason that the leukocytes in the blood have fallen sharply. A special danger is observed with medicinal agranulocytosis. This problem often occurs in the elderly. In pregnant women, the decrease in the indicator is most often associated with general fatigue and poor nutrition. But, despite this, you need to constantly be under the supervision of a doctor. In this case, the outlook will be favorable.

With leukocytosis, the course of the prognosis depends entirely on the stage at which it was seen. Usually, it is possible to eliminate the inflammatory process quickly and at the same time not to harm neither mother nor the child. If you delay the treatment, it is possible to infect the baby. In this case, there is a risk of premature birth or termination of pregnancy. The prognosis has an unfavorable course.

[29],