Blood Test Results: Anxiety and White Blood Cell Count Changes

Health Checkup Issues (Part Two)

Hello, doctor.
I apologize for not expressing myself clearly during my previous inquiry.
I would like to ask again.
The days of my school entrance health check coincided with my scheduled colonoscopy, and I have been feeling very anxious due to blood in my stool.
I have been unable to sleep well and have lost my appetite.
In March of this year, my military service health examination report showed a white blood cell count (WBC) of 7,000.
In early September, my school entrance health check showed a WBC of 4,110.
I would like to ask if the white blood cell count can fluctuate due to psychological stress.
Below are the blood test values from my September school entrance health check: WBC 4,110/µL, red blood cell count (RBC) 470 x 10^4/µL, hemoglobin (Hgb) 14.3 g/dL, hematocrit (Hct) 45.1%, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 96 fL, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) 30.4 pg, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) 31.7 g/dL, platelet count (PLT) 20.6 x 10^4/µL.
Both the WBC and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) are abnormal, but the physician's overall assessment did not mention these.
Should I consider further testing, doctor? Thank you.

Mr. Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/17

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, there are no significant abnormalities in the data.
The reference values are provided by the laboratory, and based on a comprehensive assessment, the current data shows no obvious abnormalities.
If there are any other clinical changes, it cannot be determined solely based on the data.
It is recommended that you consult your physician for a thorough evaluation.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/10/17

More Info

Understanding blood test results can be a source of anxiety for many individuals, especially when there are fluctuations in white blood cell (WBC) counts. In your case, you have experienced a decrease in your WBC count from 7000/µL in March to 4110/µL in September, which understandably raises concerns about your health.
First, it's important to recognize that WBC counts can be influenced by a variety of factors, including physical health, stress, and even recent medical procedures. Psychological stress, such as anxiety over health issues or upcoming medical tests, can indeed impact your immune system and potentially lead to changes in WBC counts. Stress can cause the body to release hormones like cortisol, which may affect the production and distribution of white blood cells.

In your September blood test results, while the WBC count is lower than the normal range (typically 4,500 to 11,000/µL), it is essential to consider the context of your overall health and any symptoms you may be experiencing. The other parameters in your blood test, such as red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (Hgb), hematocrit (Hct), and platelet count (PLT), appear to be within normal ranges, which is a positive sign.
The average hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) being flagged as abnormal may warrant further investigation, but it is crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide insights into whether this is clinically significant based on your overall health, symptoms, and medical history.
Regarding your question about whether you should have further testing, it would be prudent to follow up with your physician. They may recommend a repeat blood test to monitor your WBC count and assess any trends over time. If there are persistent abnormalities or if you develop new symptoms, additional tests may be necessary to rule out any underlying conditions.

It's also worth noting that fluctuations in blood test results are not uncommon. Factors such as hydration status, recent infections, medications, and even the time of day when the blood was drawn can influence results. Therefore, a single abnormal result does not necessarily indicate a serious health issue.

In summary, while your WBC count has decreased, it is essential to interpret this result in the context of your overall health and any accompanying symptoms. Psychological stress can indeed impact blood test results, but it is crucial to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. Regular monitoring and communication with your doctor can help alleviate anxiety and ensure that any potential health issues are addressed promptly.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Blood Test Results: What Do They Mean for Your Health?

I often experience dizziness, chest tightness, palpitations, fatigue, and excessive sleepiness, so I had a blood test done today. Could you please tell me if there are any issues with the lab report? Lab report: - White Blood Cell Count: 12,410 - Red Blood Cell Count: 392 - ...

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your blood test report shows two main issues: 1. Severe microcytic anemia, which may require consideration of iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia. 2. Elevated white blood cell count with increased neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes, which may raise concerns about pos...

Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Counts: Causes and Concerns

Hello, doctor. I recently had blood tests done on January 23 and January 26, with white blood cell counts of 6200 and 8800, respectively. My white blood cell count has typically been around 6000. Why is there such a significant difference in the results over just two to three day...

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine
Hello, it is possible for the total white blood cell count to fluctuate within a few days. This is because some white blood cells adhere to the blood vessel walls, and when the body experiences stress, a mild cold, or pain, these adhered white blood cells can detach and return to...

Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results in Cardiovascular Health

6/15 Neutrophils 34.8, Lymphocytes 47.1, Monocytes 9.8, Eosinophils 6.6, Basophils 1.79 / 18 Neutrophils 41, Eosinophils 9 / 11/14 Neutrophils 37, Eosinophils 1 Duration: 3 tests Additional notes: Frequently feeling fatigued and lethargic over the past year.

Dr. Tang Jieru reply Cardiology
Hello MAX: The tests you provided only include the latter part of the CBC parameters, and important items such as white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (HgB), and MCV values are missing. I cannot provide any conclusions based on this incomplete data. There ar...

Understanding Blood Test Results: Concerns About Leukemia and Cholesterol Levels

Hello, I have a follow-up appointment to discuss my blood test results and I would like to take some of your time to ask the doctor some questions. On August 5, 2020, my lab results showed ALT 40, AST 22, Cholesterol 224, LDL 150, Neutrophils 26%, Lymphocytes 64%, Atypical Lympho...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, 1. Based on your previous reports, the likelihood of a viral infection causing your cold is high. Most colds are caused by viral infections, and a key characteristic of viral infections is an increase in lymphocytes and a decrease in neutrophils. It is recommended to ret...