Having low platelets can be a concerning health issue. Low platelets, or thrombocytopenia, is a condition in which the body has an abnormally low amount of platelets in the blood. This can lead to health complications if left untreated, including an increased risk of bleeding and bruising. The purpose of this article is to help you better understand and manage low platelets by exploring the causes, signs, and treatments. Read on to learn more.
Causes of low platelets
Here are some common causes of low platelet count:
Autoimmune disorders
Conditions like thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and lupus can mistakenly cause the immune system to attack and destroy platelets.
Prescription treatments
Certain prescription treatments can affect platelet production or increase platelet destruction.
Pregnancy
Some pregnant women may develop gestational thrombocytopenia, typically a temporary and mild decrease in platelet count.
Certain cancers
Cancerous cells can interfere with the normal functioning of the bone marrow, leading to decreased platelet production.
Surgery
Certain surgical procedures can cause a decrease in platelet count. This can occur due to blood loss during surgery or supplements administered during the course that affect platelet production.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TPP)
TPP is a highly uncommon blood condition that can cause the formation of blood clots in small blood vessels, which can spread throughout the body. These clots can result in a reduction in platelet count.
Signs and symptoms of low platelets
Following are some signs and symptoms of low platelet count:
Excessive bleeding
One of the primary symptoms of low platelets is excessive bleeding, which can occur from various sites in the body. This may include prolonged bleeding from cuts, nosebleeds that are difficult to stop, or heavier-than-normal menstrual bleeding in women.
Easy bruising
Another noticeable sign of low platelets is easy bruising. Even minor injuries or bumps may result in the appearance of bruises, which can take longer to heal or appear more significant than expected.
Excessive bleeding gums
If the gums bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing, it could indicate a low platelet count. Bleeding gums may also occur spontaneously without any trauma or irritation.
Treatment options for low platelets
Here are various treatment options for low platelets that can help manage the condition effectively:
Prescription treatments
In some cases, supplements may be prescribed to help increase platelet production or prevent platelet destruction. These supplements work by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more platelets or preventing the immune system from attacking the platelets.
Blood or platelet transfusion
A blood or platelet transfusion may be necessary if the platelet count drops to a dangerously low level. This involves receiving platelets or blood from a donor to increase the platelet count in the body. Transfusions are typically used for short-term management of low platelets.
Splenectomy
In some instances, a surgical procedure called splenectomy may be recommended. The spleen plays a role in destroying old or damaged platelets, and removing the spleen can prevent excessive destruction of platelets.
Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG)
IVIG is a treatment option involving infusing healthy donor antibodies into the bloodstream. These antibodies can help boost platelet production and prevent platelet destruction by the immune system.
H. pylori eradication
Sometimes, low platelet count may be caused by an infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). If H. pylori is the underlying cause, treating the infection with prescription treatments can help increase the platelet count.
