Thrombocytopenia: Understanding Low Platelet Counts, Symptoms & Causes

Individuals with thrombocytopenia have a low platelet count in their blood. Platelets are used in the formation of blood clots by clumping together and plugging holes in blood vessels. Severe bleeding and blood loss can result from this condition.

Symptoms

• According to the Mayo Clinic, patients with a low platelet count may bruise easily or excessively, may develop superficial bleeding within the skin or may experience spontaneous nose or gum bleeding. Prolonged bleeding may occur from cuts, urine and stools may be bloody and menstrual flows may be abnormally heavy.

Complications

• Bleeding may develop in the brain or intestinal tract in thrombocytopenia patients and become life threatening.

Lifestyle

• Patients with low platelet counts may be advised by their doctors to avoid the use of aspirin, limit alcohol intake and avoid contact sports that have a risk of injury and bleeding.

Causes

• Thrombocytopenia may result from a reduced production of blood platelets due to a bone marrow disorder that can accompany anemia, leukemia and viral infections. Platelets can be used more quickly than normal in individuals with blood poisoning or autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatments

• Thrombocytopenia may be treated with intravenous immunoglobulin to promote a rapid increase in blood platelets. Platelet concentrates may be transfused to patients with severe thrombocytopenia.