Let's learn about White Blood Cells in a simple way? The little protectors of your body!

Have you ever wondered how when you get sick, when you have a fever or a cold, it gets better in a few days? We have a small but very strong army inside our bodies. Those soldiers are called White Blood Cells , or WBCs for short. These are the ones that protect us from disease-causing germs that enter our bodies. It's like a little army inside our bodies!

What are white blood cells? Where do they actually come from?

Simply put, white blood cells are a special type of cell in our blood. Did you know that our blood is red? The reason for that red color is red is because of red blood cells. But there are not only red blood cells in the blood, there are also these white blood cells. They are called "white" blood cells because they are colorless. These white blood cells are produced in a soft part inside our bones, that is, in the bone marrow . Think of the bone marrow as a factory that makes these white blood cells. From there, they are produced and added to the blood, and they travel throughout the body, as if on patrol. What does it do? This preparation is to catch a germ or something that causes disease if it enters the body somewhere.

These white blood cells are a very important part of our immune system. The immune system is the body's defense mechanism that protects us from diseases .

Why are these white blood cells so important to us?

White blood cells are an essential part of our body. Their main function is to protect us from disease.

• Fights germs : When germs like bacteria , viruses , and fungi enter our bodies, these white blood cells are the first to attack them. They destroy those germs and stop the spread of infection .
• Helps wounds heal: When a wound occurs, white blood cells come to the site to prevent germs from entering, remove damaged cells, and help new cells grow.
• Acts against cancer cells : Some types of white blood cells can recognize and destroy abnormal cells in our body, even cancer cells.
• Removes dead cells: These people also help keep the body clean by removing dead cells and unnecessary things from the body.

Just think, just like there is an army to protect a country, these white blood cells are the army that protects our body. If that army becomes weak, enemies from outside, that is, germs, can easily attack our body.

Is it true that there are several types of white blood cells?

Yes, that's right. Just as there are different regiments and different units in an army, white blood cells are not all the same type of cells. And there are different types, and each type has a specific job to do. There are five main types of white blood cells. Let's take a look at each type in a little more detail.

1. Neutrophils: The first group of troops to immediately enter the fight!

These are the most abundant type of white blood cell in our blood. They make up between 50% and 70% of the total white blood cell population. They are like an emergency response team . When the body is attacked by bacteria or fungi, the first thing that comes to the scene is the neutrophil. What do they do when they arrive? They engulf the germs, engulf them, and destroy them . We call this process phagocytosis . It's like a little vacuum cleaner sucking up the germs.

2. Lymphocytes: Intelligent soldiers with a memory!

These are a very important group. Lymphocytes act like the intelligence and special forces of our immune system. They are mainly divided into three groups:

• B-Cells: These are the ones that make special proteins called antibodies . Antibodies are like keys. There is a specific antibody that matches every germ. These antibodies either attach to the germs, inactivate them, or mark them so that other white blood cells can easily destroy them. Most importantly, B-Cells have a memory . This means that if a germ that has been there once comes back, they can quickly recognize it and quickly make antibodies that match it. Vaccines work on this principle.
• T-Cells: These are the ones who go straight into battle. They recognize and destroy things like our own cells that have been infected with germs, cancer cells, and more. T-cells also help control and stimulate other cells in the immune system.
• Natural Killer Cells (NK Cells): As the name suggests, these are innate killers. They can specifically destroy virus-infected cells and cancer cells without prior detection.

3. Monocytes: Great cleaners and messengers!

These are the largest type of white blood cell . When they move from the blood into the tissues, they become macrophages . "Macrophages" means "cells that swallow big." Like neutrophils, they also swallow and clean up germs, dead cells, and other debris. But they also carry a message to other immune cells, such as lymphocytes, saying, "Here comes the enemy."It does. That is, it helps initiate the immune response.

4. Eosinophils: Against parasites and allergies!

These are especially active in parasitic infections , that is, in diseases like worms. They can kill parasites by releasing toxic substances. In addition, the number of eosinophils increases in allergic reactions . They also have an effect in conditions like asthma.

5. Basophils: Warning Signals!

Basophils are the least abundant of the white blood cells. But their function is also very important. When allergies occur, they release chemicals like histamine . Histamine is what causes symptoms like hives, itching, and runny nose during allergies. This is actually a signal to the body that there is "danger." They also release a substance called heparin , which prevents blood from clotting. Now you probably understand that white blood cells are not just soldiers, but a team of specialists with different abilities who help each other.

How do we know if our white blood cell count is normal?

We can't tell this just by looking at it. To know the number of white blood cells, you need to do a blood test . Usually, doctors recommend a full blood count (FBC) , or as some call it, a complete blood count (CBC) . This test can determine the amount of everything in the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Normally, a healthy adult has between 4,000 and 11,000 white blood cells per microliter of blood. However, this value can vary slightly from lab to lab, depending on age, and sometimes even depending on the time of day. Therefore, if you want to know the exact values ​​in your report, it is best to talk to a doctor.

What happens if the white blood cell count increases (leukocytosis)? Is it dangerous?

When the number of white blood cells increases above normal, we call it leukocytosis . Don't be alarmed when you hear this. Most of the time, an increase in white blood cells is a sign that our body is fighting something. Think about it this way. If a thief breaks into your house, you call the police. Does one police officer come? No, several come. Similarly, when a germ enters the body, the body's defense forces, that is, white blood cells, produce more and send them to fight. There are several possible reasons for an increase in white blood cells:

• Infections: This is the most common cause. White blood cells increase in bacterial and viral infections. For example, a sore throat, urinary tract infection, or pneumonia .
• Inflammation:In a condition where there is inflammation, that is, swelling and redness somewhere in the body (e.g. arthritis), white blood cells may increase.
• Physical or mental stress: Don't be surprised, excessive fatigue, after major surgery, or during periods of high mental stress can temporarily increase the number of white blood cells.
• Certain medications: For example, when using medications like corticosteroids .
• Smoking: Smokers usually have slightly higher white blood cell counts.
• Allergies: May increase in severe allergies.
• Some types of cancer: Leukemia is a cancer of the cells that produce white blood cells. In this condition, the number of white blood cells increases abnormally. However, don't be afraid that every time your white blood cells increase, it's leukemia. The doctor will do the necessary tests to find the cause.

Important: If you notice an increase in your white blood cell count, it's a doctor's job to determine the exact cause. So, don't try to diagnose yourself.

So what happens if the white blood cell count decreases (Leukopenia)?

When the number of white blood cells is lower than normal, we call it Leukopenia . This means that the number of soldiers in our body that are ready to fight diseases is low. That means, our immunity is weak , and the chances of getting infections are high. It is as if our country's army is very small. Then, enemies from outside can easily enter the country and cause damage, right? That's how it is, when the number of white blood cells is low, germs can easily enter our body and cause diseases. There are several reasons why white blood cells can be low:

• Viral infections: Some viruses (e.g. influenza, dengue) can temporarily reduce the activity of the bone marrow and reduce the production of white blood cells.
• Bone Marrow Disorders: Diseases in which the bone marrow cannot make cells properly (e.g., aplastic anemia) or conditions in which the bone marrow is damaged.
• Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy: These treatments can damage not only cancer cells, but also healthy cells that divide rapidly (such as white blood cells).
• Autoimmune Diseases: In these diseases, our own immune system attacks our own cells. Sometimes, it can also attack white blood cells (e.g., lupus).
• Severe Infections: Sometimes, in a very severe infection (e.g. , sepsis ), a large number of white blood cells can be destroyed and depleted faster than they can be produced.
• Some medications:It can also be caused by things like certain types of antibiotics and some medications for mental illness.
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies: Deficiencies in things like vitamin B12, folate, and copper, in particular, can lead to decreased white blood cell production.

A person with low white blood cells may experience frequent fevers, infections, and slow healing of wounds.

When should I see a doctor about white blood cells?

Usually, if you have no symptoms, you don't need to worry about your white blood cells. However, it's a good idea to seek medical advice if you have any of the following:

• If you get frequent infections: If you keep getting things like fever, colds, and sore throats.
• If you have a persistent fever for no reason.
• If you feel extremely tired for no reason.
• If you are losing weight for no reason.
• If you have swollen lymph nodes in different parts of your body.
• If your blood test shows an abnormal white blood cell count , be sure to see a doctor to discuss it.

Remember, these symptoms can be common to many other diseases. Therefore, do not make a diagnosis based on what you read online. It is important to see a doctor for proper advice and treatment.

What can we do to keep our white blood cells healthy?

Since our white blood cells are part of our immune system, the same things we do to keep our immune system strong are also good for the health of our white blood cells.

• Eat a balanced diet: Eat a good diet that includes vegetables, fruits, legumes, grains, and protein (fish, meat, eggs, milk, nuts). The vitamins and minerals from these are essential for the production of white blood cells and their function.
• Get enough sleep: A good night's sleep of 7-8 hours a day is very important for the immune system.
• Manage stress: Excessive stress can weaken the immune system. You can reduce stress through things like meditation, yoga, and hobbies.
• Exercise regularly: Doing a sweaty workout for at least 30 minutes a few days a week helps boost your immune system.
• Take care of cleanliness: Frequent hand washing and eating clean foods can help reduce the risk of germs entering the body.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking is very harmful to the immune system.
• Get Vaccinations on Time: Vaccinations can protect against some serious infections.

By following these steps, you can help your white blood cells do their job properly.

What is the most important thing we should take home from this story?

Okay, so we've talked a lot about white blood cells. In simple terms, here are some things to remember:

• White blood cells are our body's defense soldiers . Without them, we can't fight disease.
• There are different types of white blood cells, and each type has a specific function.
• A blood test (FBC/CBC) can determine the number of white blood cells.
• An increase (leukocytosis) or decrease (leukopenia) in the number of white blood cells can be caused by a variety of reasons. Some are normal, while others are something to be concerned about.
• If you have unusual symptoms or a change in a blood test , be sure to seek medical advice .
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can keep your white blood cells, and through them, your entire immune system, strong.

So, I hope you are now aware of these small, but very important guards inside your body. It is your responsibility to take good care of them! White Blood Cells, White Blood Cells, WBC, Immunity, Infections, Leukocytosis, Leukopenia