Platelets are colorless cells that clump together to form clots when the blood vessels are injured. The number of these cells can increase or decrease when dealing with certain health conditions. For instance, diseases affecting the bone marrow, like leukemia and lymphoma, can lead to a low platelet count. Recognizing early signs of the issue, like delayed or poor blood clotting, can help one seek treatment and prevent excessive blood loss.

Signs
The body usually has 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter. Anything less than 150,000 indicates a condition called thrombocytopenia. But how can one identify this issue? Here are some tell-tale signs of a low platelet count:

Slow or minimal clotting: As platelets help clot the blood, a low platelet count can disrupt this function, leading to heavy bleeding. So, even if one is lightly injured, they may keep bleeding for a while.

Nosebleeds or gum bleeding: A clear sign of low platelet count is frequent bleeding from the nose or gums. An internal injury can trigger such bleeding.

Blood in urine or stool: One can observe changes in the color of stool and urine when dealing with a low platelet count. The stool can turn dark, and the urine color can change to pale pink.

Heavy menstrual bleeding: One may experience abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding, which may last longer than usual.

Causes
The body being unable to make enough platelets is the primary cause of low platelet supply. Here is a look at all causes:

Low production: The bone marrow may not make enough platelets, or certain conditions destroy any platelets that the body manages to create.

Enlarged spleen: The spleen stores one-third of the body’s platelets. Certain disorders can cause the spleen to become enlarged and hold more platelets than it should, affecting the overall supply.

Lifestyle changes: Changes in eating habits can also contribute to low platelet count. For example, environmental change exposes one to toxic chemicals, which could affect platelet creation.

Prescription treatment: Certain prescription treatments can slow down platelet production.

Management options
It is possible to treat low platelet count by making a few lifestyle changes. However, if the platelet count is excessively low, one should consult a doctor immediately. One of the options here is prescription-based treatment, which can boost platelet count. Surgeries or blood transfusions can help elevate the platelet count as well.

Foods to consider
One can choose the following foods to address the issue:

Milk: Milk helps provide calcium, but its vitamin K content can improve the body’s blood-clotting mechanism.

Green leafy vegetables: Leafy vegetables are rich in vitamin K, also increasing platelet count naturally.

Pomegranate: Pomegranate is rich in iron, which can improve blood cell count.

Papaya leaf extract: Although bitter, the extract of papaya leaves contains enzymes that promote the production of platelets.

Pumpkin: Pumpkin contains vitamin A, which can help the bone marrow produce more platelets.

Protein sources: Foods like eggs and seafood can increase the platelet count by providing the body with vitamin B12.

Low platelets count is a common condition that can often be managed through prescription treatment and nutrition-based changes. However, one should consult a doctor before trying home remedies to address the issue.