What might happen if a person's white blood cell count is lower than normal?

A lower than normal white blood cell count, also known as leukopenia, significantly impacts the body's ability to fight infections and diseases. White blood cells are essential components of the immune system, tasked with defending the body against pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders. When the count is reduced, the immune response is compromised, leading to increased vulnerability to infections.

Individuals with a low white blood cell count may find that they experience frequent infections, prolonged illness, or a greater severity of common diseases. This diminished ability to combat pathogens is the primary concern, making it critical to monitor white blood cell levels in patients known to have conditions affecting immune function or those undergoing treatments, such as chemotherapy, that can reduce white blood cell production.

While changes in energy levels, blood pressure, or weight can occur for various reasons, they are not direct consequences of a lower white blood cell count. The most immediate and concerning effect is the increased risk of infections, which highlights the importance of maintaining healthy white blood cell levels for overall health.