What Happens When You are Deficient In
White Blood Cells (WBCs)
WBCs are required by your body to fight against infection.
Figure 1: Precautions if your WBC count is low
Red Blood Cells (RBCs)
RBCs carry oxygen to and remove waste products from the body's tissues. These cells also contain hemoglobin.
When you do not have enough RBCs, you develop a condition called "Anemia." When you are anemic, your hemoglobin levels will be below normal. You may feel weak and tired, and you may also have these symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Heart palpitations (racing heartbeat)
- Ringing in your ears
- Shortness of breath
- Pounding in your head
Figure 2: Precautions if your RBC count is low
Platelets
Platelets help stop bleeding by forming blood clots.
When you do not have enough platelets, you have a condition called "Thrombocytopenia.'' You may bruise easily, and you may also have some of the following signs:
- Tiny, pinpoint-sized red or purple spots on your skin
- Bleeding gums
- Black or bloody stool
- Increased vaginal bleeding
- Prolonged bleeding from a cut
- Nose bleeds
- Brown or red urine
Figure 3: Precautions if your platelet count is low
