Allergy or inflammation is an immune system response to foreign substances or tissue damage that triggers the release of specialized white blood cells. It is caused by the activation of basophils and other immune cells that release histamine and inflammatory mediators when exposed to allergens or inflammatory triggers. The Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential is the most important test for detecting allergic reactions and inflammation because it measures basophil levels and other immune cell counts.
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Allergy or inflammation is caused by the immune system's response to foreign substances (allergens) or tissue damage. When you're exposed to allergens like pollen, pet dander, certain foods, or insect stings, your immune system releases histamine and other chemicals from specialized white blood cells called basophils and mast cells. Inflammation can also be triggered by infections, injuries, autoimmune disorders, or chronic conditions. These immune responses cause symptoms like swelling, redness, itching, and increased mucus production as your body attempts to protect itself from perceived threats.
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential is the most important test for detecting allergy or inflammation because it measures basophil levels and other white blood cell counts that increase during allergic reactions and inflammatory processes. Basophils are specialized immune cells that release histamine during allergic responses, and elevated levels indicate your body is actively fighting allergens or experiencing inflammation. The CBC also measures eosinophils, another white blood cell type commonly elevated in allergic conditions, along with total white blood cell count which rises during inflammation. While specific allergy testing may require additional methods like skin prick tests or IgE antibody panels, the CBC provides essential baseline information about your immune system's activity and inflammatory status.
You should get tested if you experience recurring symptoms like unexplained rashes, hives, persistent itching, frequent sneezing or congestion, digestive issues after eating, or chronic swelling without obvious cause. Testing is especially important if you notice patterns of symptoms after exposure to certain foods, environments, or seasons, or if you have unexplained fatigue and body aches that suggest chronic inflammation. You should also consider testing if over-the-counter allergy medications aren't providing relief, if your symptoms interfere with daily activities, or if you're experiencing worsening respiratory issues that could indicate allergic asthma.
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What this means
Your hemoglobin is slightly below the optimal range, indicating mild anemia. This means your blood isn't carrying quite enough oxygen to your body's tissues, which can explain feelings of fatigue, weakness, or occasional shortness of breath. With proper nutrition and possibly supplementation, this typically improves within a few months.
Recommended actions
Increase iron-rich foods like lean red meat, beans, lentils, and dark leafy greens
Pair iron sources with vitamin C foods (citrus, tomatoes, bell peppers) to boost absorption
Consider an iron supplement after consulting with your doctor about the right dosage
Retest in 8-12 weeks to monitor improvement after dietary changes
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