My daughter was dehydrated with a headache and white blood count of 21000. What does that mean?

Dehydration: Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to an imbalance in the body's electrolyte and water levels. Symptoms of dehydration can include thirst, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, and dizziness. Severe dehydration can lead to confusion, seizures, and even death.

White Blood Count (WBC): The white blood cell count is a measure of the number of white blood cells in the blood. White blood cells are part of the body's immune system and help fight off infections. A normal WBC count ranges from 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microliter (mcL) of blood. A WBC count above 11,000 cells/mcL is considered high and may indicate an infection or other underlying medical condition.

High WBC Count and Dehydration: A high WBC count, along with dehydration, could be a sign of an underlying infection. Dehydration can stress the body and make it more susceptible to infections. Infections, in turn, can cause inflammation and an increase in WBC production. However, it's important to note that a high WBC count alone does not necessarily mean an infection is present. Other tests and evaluations may be needed to determine the cause of the elevated WBC count.

Seek Medical Attention: If your daughter is dehydrated and has a high WBC count, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. The doctor can assess her condition, determine the cause of her symptoms, and recommend appropriate treatment.