Question
A two-month-old child was hospitalized for treatment of aspiration pneumonia and was discharged in good condition. However, the blood test showed elevated blood counts with no clear cause. What could be the possible reasons? Additionally, the child has a habit of sleeping with the mouth open. What could be the cause of this?
Answer
Elevated blood counts are usually caused by bacterial or viral infections. It is recommended to check for rhinitis, as an increased white blood cell count is one of the common results of a routine blood test, and an increased white cell count is often a sign of bacterial infection. However, to determine an increased white blood cell count, it must be combined with clinical presentations. At the same time, it is suggested to discontinue all medications and have regular follow-ups, as sometimes medications can also cause an increase in white blood cell counts. In this case, reliance on physical exercise to enhance resistance is recommended. In autumn, consider getting vaccinated against influenza virus subunit vaccine to reduce the risk of catching a cold.