Thrombocytopenia – causes, symptoms and treatment

Thrombocytopenia, also called low platelet count, is a condition that can lead to a number of health problems. In this article, we will discuss what thrombocytopenia is, its symptoms, types, methods of diagnosis and effective treatments. You will also learn how to raise your platelet levels and maintain them at the appropriate level.

Thrombocytopenia – what is it?

Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which the number of platelets (thrombocytes) in the body is lower than normal. Platelets are small, round cells that play a key role in the blood clotting process. When platelet levels are too low, the body becomes more prone to bleeding and has difficulty stopping bleeding.

Thrombocytopenia (low level of platelets in the blood) – symptoms

Symptoms of thrombocytopenia may vary and depend on the degree of platelet deficiency. The most common symptoms include:

• Susceptibility to bruising and petechiae
• Excessive bleeding in minor injuries
• Bleeding from the nose or gums
• Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract, manifested by black, tarry stools
• Bleeding during menstruation in women
• Tendency to bleed during surgery

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is worth consulting a doctor for appropriate tests.

What are the types of thrombocytopenia?

Thrombocytopenia can have various causes and types. There are main types of thrombocytopenia, which include:

• Primary thrombocytopenia (idiopathic) – a condition in which the cause of the low number of platelets is unknown.
• Secondary thrombocytopenia – caused by other conditions such as autoimmune diseases, cancer, infections or taking certain medications.
• Drug-induced thrombocytopenia – occurs as a result of the action of certain drugs that inhibit the production of platelets.
• Thrombocytopenia associated with liver disease – occurs in patients with liver disorders.

How to check your platelet level?

The diagnosis of thrombocytopenia is based on blood tests, especially measuring the number of platelets in a sample. The most important test is a peripheral blood count, the result of which allows for the assessment of platelet levels and the identification of possible other abnormalities.

If your platelet levels are lower than normal, your doctor may order additional tests to determine the cause of your thrombocytopenia.

Thrombocytopenia – treatment. how to increase platelet levels?

Treatment of thrombocytopenia depends on the cause and degree of platelet deficiency. In some cases, it may be necessary to take action to increase the number of platelets in your blood. Treatment methods may include:

• Taking medications that stimulate the production of platelets
• Elimination of secondary causes of thrombocytopenia, for example, treatment of autoimmune diseases
• Bone marrow transplantation in severe forms of thrombocytopenia

Remember that treatment of thrombocytopenia should be carried out under strict supervision of a hematologist.

Your suggestions

If you have suggestions about topics you would like to read on our website, please contact us and share them with us. We want to provide information that is most valuable to our readers.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in blood health and the hematopoietic system, we also recommend reading our other articles on this topic.