18 Hidden Causes of High Neutrophil Counts That Doctors Want You to Know

5. Reaction To Certain Medications

An individual's reaction to certain medications can cause them to develop neutrophilia. Beta-adrenergic agonists are bronchodilators, which loosen the muscles lining an individual's airways. These medicines are typically used to treat individuals with bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, and other lung conditions. Neutrophilia is an uncommon adverse side effect of these medications. Corticosteroids exhibit a similar mechanism that causes neutrophilia. However, they are typically used to treat other issues, such as autoimmune disorders, skin conditions, and to prevent organ transplant rejection. Epinephrine is used to treat anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest, and other emergent conditions. This medicine causes the neutrophils embedded in the blood vessel walls to enter and populate the bloodstream, resulting in neutrophilia. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor is a medication used in cancer patients who have a low neutrophil count following their treatment. This medication stimulates the production and release of white blood cells from the bone marrow. Thus, it may cause neutrophilia. Heparin can cause neutrophilia because it causes increased activation of neutrophilic components. Lithium, a medication used to treat some psychiatric disorders, is also known to cause neutrophilia. It does this by stimulating the production and release of neutrophils from the bone marrow.

6. Heart Attack

A major factor in neutrophilia development is acute inflammation. This is a significant reason why a heart attack, which causes acute inflammation, can trigger neutrophilia in quite a few patients. A heart attack, of course, is the result of blood flow to the individual's heart being blocked. In many instances, the blockage is from a buildup of cholesterol, fat, and similar substances. The buildup causes plaque in the coronary arteries. Plaque can also rupture and form a blood clot that also blocks blood flow. Symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain and pressure, tightness in the chest, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, and shortness of breath. Individuals who think they may be having a heart attack need emergency medical attention.