Hematologist-Pathologist Questions Hematologist-Oncologist

How can you raise your blood count?

I am a 33 year old male and I was told I have a low blood count. How can you raise your blood count?

3 Answers

The key is to now which cell line is low (white cells, red cells, platelets) and figure out why. It can be as simple as a nutrient deficiency, a benign inheritable cause, or as complex as a cancer that invades the bone marrow space.
If this count is stable, it may sometimes be watched over longer periods of time. If the blood count falls quickly, you may need an urgent work-up in order to not miss a dangerous condition.
There are many potential ways to raise a persons blood count, however it is very important to understand WHY the blood count is low in order to decide how best to raise it! Very importantly, DO NOT take iron supplements unless you are iron deficient, as excess iron can be harmful. It is also important not try to achieve a higher than normal blood count, as this can also be dangerous. If you are anemic, talk to your doctor about what tests are required to determine the cause of anemia, and treatment recommendations can be given accordingly. If the cause of anemia is unclear, you may require a hematology consultation.
I assume you mean red cell count and not white cell or platelet count. If you are anemic (low red cell count) the treatment would depend upon the cause. If due to iron deficiency in a male, cause is almost always bleeding in the western world where diet is not a factor. You may have a genetic abnormality called thalassemia minor if you are Asian or from the Mediterranean area.