Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that play a role in the body’s immune system. They are produced in the bone marrow and travel through the bloodstream to the tissues, where they release chemicals that help to fight infection and inflammation.

A complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test that measures the number of different types of blood cells, including lymphocytes. The normal range for lymphocytes in a CBC is 1,000 to 4,800 cells per microliter of blood.

A high lymphocyte count, called lymphocytosis, can be a sign of a number of conditions, including:

• Infection
• Inflammation
• Leukemia
• Lymphoma
• Autoimmune diseases
• HIV/AIDS

A low lymphocyte count, called lymphopenia, can be a sign of a number of conditions, including:

• Aplastic anemia
• Bone marrow suppression
• HIV/AIDS
• Cancer treatment
• Medications
• Stress

There is no specific treatment to improve lymphocyte levels. Treatment is focused on the underlying condition that is causing the abnormal lymphocyte count. For example, if the abnormal lymphocyte count is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If the abnormal lymphocyte count is caused by leukemia, chemotherapy may be prescribed.

Here are some lifestyle changes that may help to improve lymphocyte levels:

• Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep helps to improve the body’s ability to fight infection and inflammation.
• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps to provide the body with the nutrients it needs to fight infection and inflammation.
• Exercise regularly: Exercise helps to improve the body’s immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Manage stress: Stress can weaken the immune system and make it more difficult to fight infection and inflammation. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature, can help to improve lymphocyte levels.

If you are concerned about your lymphocyte levels, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor may want to do further tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Note: Sandra’s lymphocytes spiked to 2.3 on 3/11/23; but, they have been within the normal range since 2019.