How can you tell if bronchitis is viral or bacterial just by a blood test?
You’re right – your white blood cell (WBC) count goes up for bacterial as well as viral infections. However, there are several different types of WBCs in a person’s bloodstream, including lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils, eosinophils, and neutophils. Immature neutrophils (bands) appear different than mature neutrophils (segmented or “segs”) under a microscope lens. During an acute infection, whether of viral or bacterial origin, WBCs will become elevated. Simplest way to explain the next part: your WBCs will usually eradicate a viral infection in 7-10 days with or without medications; you’ll have an elevation of total WBCs as well as segs and, possibly, lymphocytes and/or monocytes. Bacterial infections, if left untreated, will progress rapidly. Your body can recognize bacterial -vs- viral infections, as well, and will usually start to “throw everything but the kitchen sink” at it. Stores of WBCs are released, increasing your total WBCs and segs. Frequently, though, your body will “kn
