How to Bring Up Low WBC & RBC Due to Chemo Treatments

Chemotherapy is the use of intravenous (IV) medications to treat cancer. While the drugs help break up the fast-dividing cells of cancer, they also attack fast-dividing cells that the body needs, including those in the bone marrow that manufacture blood cells. The result is that you develop low blood counts, which can make you feel unwell, render you more susceptible to infection and cause you to bruise and bleed easily. There are a few things your oncologist may recommend to help bring up your blood count.

Instructions

• 1

  Your blood has three key components: red blood cells (RBC), which carry oxygen throughout the body; white blood cells (WBC), which fight infection; and platelets, which allow your blood to clot. The amount of each component is called a blood count. Low blood counts are expected during chemotherapy, but if they fall too low, you are at risk for severe health problems that may complicate your cancer treatment or even force chemotherapy to be delayed. The results can be disastrous. Throughout your chemotherapy treatments, your oncologist will monitor your blood counts by routinely ordering a blood test called the complete blood count (CBC). Keep notes of your test results, and don't be afraid to ask questions.

• 2

  Start with prevention. Eat a balanced diet high in protein (from meat and dairy) and vitamins (from fruits and vegetables). Perform meticulous daily hygiene, especially frequent hand-washing. Avoid people who are sick. Get plenty of rest and drink plenty of non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic fluids. Avoid strenuous or dangerous activities that may cause you to get out of breath, put you in contact with infectious agents, or cause you to be cut or bruised. Your doctor may want you to take multivitamins or dietary supplements to support your blood. Keep a journal on how you're feeling each day, so you can note any changes and keep your oncologist informed.

• 3

  Your doctor may recommend different medications to bring up your RBC, your WBC or your platelet count. Some of these medications require frequent doses, and they all have the potential for serious side effects. Again, keep notes on how you're feeling and notify your oncologist of any sudden changes.

• 4

  If all else fails, your doctor may recommend a transfusion to put new blood components from a donor into your body. Foreign blood may put you at risk for infection, but transfusions often help in bringing up your blood count so you can continue to fight your cancer. You and your oncologist will discuss the risks and benefits of transfusion. Don't be afraid to ask questions.