Is a white blood cell count of 3.15×10^9/L requiring treatment?

Mar 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I've been catching colds frequently lately and feel unwell all over. I went to the hospital for a checkup, and my white blood cell count is 3.15×10⁹/L. Is this condition serious, and does it require treatment?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng

In general, whether a white blood cell count of 3.15×10^9/L requires treatment mainly depends on the specific cause of the low white blood cell count. If it is caused by physiological factors, treatment is usually unnecessary. However, if it is caused by pathological factors, medical treatment following a doctor's instructions is required.

White blood cell count is an important indicator in blood tests, reflecting the status of the body's immune system. The normal white blood cell count range for healthy adults is approximately between 4.0 and 10.0×10^9/L; therefore, a white blood cell count of 3.15×10^9/L is slightly below the normal value. If the temporary decrease in white blood cell count is due to recent medication use, excessive fatigue, long-term sleep deprivation, or similar factors, special treatment generally is not necessary. In most cases, the white blood cell count will gradually return to normal after discontinuation of the medication or adjustment of lifestyle habits.

However, if a low white blood cell count is accompanied by symptoms such as fever and headache, it may indicate an underlying disease, such as aplastic anemia or hypersplenism. These conditions can lead to reduced production or increased destruction of white blood cells, thereby affecting immune function. In such cases, timely medical consultation is necessary to receive targeted treatment based on the specific cause.

It is recommended that individuals with low white blood cell counts maintain good daily habits, such as regular作息 (作息 translates to作息 schedule or routine) and moderate exercise, which can help maintain overall health.