Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count & Low Potassium: What Could It Mean?

Question
Ok I went and got 4 viles of blood taken. A CBC, Metobolic table, Tyroid w/ reflex and something else. They said I have an elevated white blood cell count and low potassium levels and I MUST get a Tyroid ultra sound done, they scheduled it for me at the earliest appointment. They won't tell me what could be wrong. I am one of those people who need to be prepared or I lose it. What could all of that mean?

Answer
Hi Jennifer.  I understand your anxiety about this, but try not to worry!  An elevated white count could mean an infection and low potassium could mean dehydration (even mild).  But without actual numbers for your results, I can't really say.  Your result may only be slightly out of range, and then there wouldn't be any need for worry!  I'm not sure why you MUST get the thyroid ultrasound done if your thyroid testing was normal.  Did they mention that was abnormal?  If you're not sure about things, another call to the doctor's office may be in order.  Most doctors/nurses shouldn't mind giving better explanations to their patients.  Give that a try.  Good luck!

Samantha