Do any of you exceedingly knowledgeable and well informed people know how one increases a low white blood cell count? Extensive search on the Internet discloses only herbs, which I have been discouraged from taking, and a list of some foods which may help. Thanks much for any information you can provide.

Joanna

Hi Joanna,

What you want to look for is 'neutropenia'. That's the medical term for decreased WBC. They give what is called a GCSF-Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. Brand name is Neupogen. It's an injection that is given usually from 7-14 days. It can be done at home - I gave it to my husband. Only side effect is some bone achiness but it certainly does the trick.

On the flip side, it's Epogen that can be given to boost the RBC's. It's also an injection.

Isn't chemo fun? NOT!

Cynthia