A low platelet count can, in turn, result in bleeding and/or the need to delay chemotherapy. Thrombocytopenia is usually defined as less than 150,000 platelets per cubic millimeter of blood on a complete blood count, although significant bleeding does not usually occur until the level drops below 20,000 or even 10,000.
Full Answer
What does it mean when your platelet count is low?
Having a low platelet count — a condition called “thrombocytopenia” — is a problem with normal blood clotting and bruising that results from having low levels of thrombocytes, colorless blood cells produced by bone marrow.
How do I manage low platelets due to chemotherapy?
Low platelet counts due to chemotherapy can often be managed conservatively, that is, by paying attention to symptoms and avoiding things that could risk bleeding. At times, however, thrombocytopenia will need to be treated.
Can low platelets be reversed?
Low platelet count can be caused by multiple factors, and in many cases, it is easily reversed. Changing your medications or diet, or addressing the health condition behind the lowered count may be accomplished rather quickly. For cases where platelet production is the focus of care, medicines can boost counts in a hurry as well.
What can cause platelets to decrease?
Many conditions can cause a decrease in the production of platelets. These conditions often prevent bone marrow from making platelets. Certain viruses, poor nutrition, and heavy alcohol use can impact your body's ability to make platelets. Blood cancer and cancer treatment can also have this effect.
Can low platelets leads to death?
If your platelet count is extremely low, you could start bleeding internally all by itself. If untreated, a very low platelet count could be fatal.
Can you recover from low platelet count?
If your platelet level becomes too low, your doctor can replace lost blood with transfusions of packed red blood cells or platelets. Medications. If your condition is related to an immune system problem, your doctor might prescribe drugs to boost your platelet count. The first-choice drug might be a corticosteroid.
What is the minimum platelet count for chemotherapy?
Platelets are made in the bone marrow. The platelets help stop bleeding if a blood vessel is cut or injured. A normal platelet count is 150,000. A normal platelet count for a person getting chemotherapy or radiation therapy is 20,000 to 50,000.
What cancers cause low platelets?
Certain cancers such as leukemia or lymphoma can lower your platelet count. The abnormal cells in these cancers can crowd out healthy cells in the bone marrow, where platelets are made. Less common causes of a low platelet count include: Cancer that spreads to the bone.
Is low platelet count serious?
If left untreated, a low platelet count can be very serious because it can cause internal bleeding of the brain or the intestines. In the worst cases, this may even cause death. That is why it is essential to seek medical care if you think you might be at risk.
What is a dangerously low platelet count?
Dangerous internal bleeding can occur when your platelet count falls below 10,000 platelets per microliter. Though rare, severe thrombocytopenia can cause bleeding into the brain, which can be fatal.
How long can you live without platelets?
Potential Benefits of Continuing Transfusions Platelets transfusions can stop or prevent bleeding caused by severe thrombocytopenia within hours but usually have a life span of only 4-8 days (4).
What is the alarming level of platelets?
A normal platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Having more than 450,000 platelets is a condition called thrombocytosis; having less than 150,000 is known as thrombocytopenia.
What happens when blood count is too low for chemo?
Rarely, dangerous internal bleeding can occur. A low platelet count can delay your treatment. You may have to wait until your platelet levels go up in order to continue with chemotherapy or to have surgery. A low platelet count can also be treated with a platelet transfusion.
Can low platelets lead to leukemia?
Blood cells are produced in the bone marrow. In those with myelodysplatic syndrome (MDS) the bone marrow is damaged and blood cell production is impaired, including platelet production. The disease can also transform into acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
How can I stop my platelets from dropping?
Low Platelets ThrombocytopeniaAvoid procedures that may cause a break in the skin. ... Take special precautions with personal hygiene.Avoid falls in the shower or tub by using slip guard mats.Keep your teeth clean with a soft toothbrush. ... Use an electric razor for shaving.Wear shoes to protect your feet.More items...
What is the most common cause of low platelet count?
One of the most common causes of low platelets is a condition called immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). You may hear it called by its old name, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
What is low platelet count?
A low platelet count is a blood disorder that has a long list of possible causes . It is also known as thrombocytopenia. Reduced platelet content in the blood is not always a serious problem. However, the condition affects the ability of the blood to clot, and wounds can bleed severely with this condition. This can have serious complications in some ...
Why are platelets low?
The level of platelets is usually low as a result of two main factors. Either an underlying medical condition is causing the reduced level, or an individual is taking a medication or substance that serves to reduce platelet count.
What is ITP in medical terms?
ITP refers to idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. It is also known as immune thrombocytopenia. The name of the condition relates to bleeding-induced rashes that occur as a result of a low platelet count. Idiopathic means that the cause is not known. In ITP, the immune system attacks platelets.
What is the role of platelets in blood?
Platelets form a crucial part of the composition of blood. They are responsible for repairing tissue damage and play a vital role in the blood-clotting system, which helps to stop bleeding and heal wounds. Blood clotting is also known as hemostasis. Platelets are not invisible to the naked eye.
How many platelets are in a microliter?
A normal platelet count is around 140,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter (μl) of blood. When the number of platelets is low, this concentration reduces. Women normally experience a platelet count that varies slightly during the menstrual cycle and can fall near the end of pregnancy.
What causes low platelets?
Platelets are the component in blood that enables it to clot. Medicines, poisonous substances, heavy alcohol drinking, and even drinks with quinine in them, such as tonic water, can cause low platelet counts. Quinine is also found in tablets for leg cramps. If a doctor finds one of these substances to be the cause of a low platelet count, ...
What are the causes of thrombocytopenia?
Poisons that can cause thrombocytopenia include pesticides, arsenic, and benzene. The following are antiplatelet or anti-clotting drugs that reduce the platelet count: glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors, including abciximab, eptifibatide, and tirofiban. heparin.
Why is it important to protect yourself from low platelet count?
For people who already have been diagnosed with low platelet counts, avoiding injuries and infections is important, since both can worsen autoimmune reactions, spleen enlargement and trigger excessive bleeding.
What is the best treatment for low platelet count?
Medications and treatments used to stabilize severely low platelet counts can include platelet transfusions, splenectomy (surgery to remove the spleen), corticosteroids or immunoglobulins, which block effects of the immune system. ( 1)
How to raise platelet count?
Once a diagnosis has been made, you can use the recommendations below to help raise your blood platelet counts, manage symptoms and prevent complications from developing: 1. Improve Your Diet. Vitamin B12 or folate (vitamin B9) deficiency can both cause mild to moderate low platelet counts.
What does it mean when your platelet count is low?
If so, there’s a chance you have a low platelet count. Having a low platelet count — a condition called “thrombocytopenia” — is a problem with normal blood clotting and bruising that results from having low levels of thrombocytes , colorless blood cells produced by bone marrow. Thrombocytes are responsible for helping form blood clots in ...
What is the role of thromocytes in blood clots?
Thrombocytes are responsible for helping form blood clots in the arteries/veins and stopping bleeding. A low platelet count puts someone at a higher risk for internal bleeding or other blood clotting and blood vessel-related problems — and unfortunately can sometimes really take a toll on quality of life.
How long does it take for platelets to die?
In healthy people, platelets wind up dying off after about 10 days, at which point they’re replaced by new ones.
What vitamins help with low platelet count?
Aside from vitamin B 12 and folate described above to help prevent deficiencies, and anti-inflammatories for controlling pain, there’s evidence that people with low platelet counts can also benefit from taking or consuming more of the following: ( 4)
What is low platelet count?
Low Platelet Count (Bleeding) Platelets are blood cells called thrombocytes and help your blood clot, so you stop bleeding. Low platelet count is also called thrombocytopenia. When your platelet levels are lower than normal, your blood isn’t able to clot as it should, putting you at a higher risk for excessive bleeding.
Why is my platelet count low?
Your platelet count may be low if the body is not making enough platelets, losing platelets, or platelets are being destroyed. In patients with cancer, low platelet count may be caused by:
Why do you need a platelet transfusion?
A platelet transfusion might be needed in some patients with cancer who have a low platelet count. Platelets may be given to prevent bleeding when the platelet count is very low, or they may be given if a patient has some unusual bleeding to help stop it.
How to stop bleeding from a cancer patient?
If your mouth is bleeding, rinse it a few times with ice water. Talk to your cancer care team about whether you should put off flossing your teeth until your platelet counts improve. Do not blow your nose or cough with great force. Use a stool softener to avoid constipation and straining during a bowel movement.
How to stop a nosebleed from dripping?
For nosebleeds, have the patient sit up with head tilted forward, to keep blood from dripping down the back of the throat. Put ice on the nose and pinch the nostrils shut for 5 minutes before releasing them. Ice on the back of the neck may also help.
What does it mean when you have red stools?
Women may have heavy vaginal bleeding during monthly periods. New unexplained bruises on the skin. Red pinpoint dots on the skin, usually starting on feet and legs. Bad headaches, dizziness, or blurred vision . Weakness that gets worse.
What is the protein in your body called that attacks platelets?
Sometimes the proteins in your body called antibodies may attack and destroy platelets. Another health problem or medication that is not related to your cancer.
Why do platelets stop bleeding?
Platelets stop bleeding by clumping and forming plugs in blood vessel injuries. Thrombocytopenia might occur as a result of a bone marrow disorder such as leukemia or an immune system problem. Or it can be a side effect of taking certain medications. It affects both children and adults.
What medications can reduce platelets?
Sometimes a drug confuses the immune system and causes it to destroy platelets. Examples include heparin, quinine, sulfa-containing antibiotics and anticonvulsants.
How to tell if you have thrombocytopenia?
Thrombocytopenia signs and symptoms may include: 1 Easy or excessive bruising (purpura) 2 Superficial bleeding into the skin that appears as a rash of pinpoint-sized reddish-purple spots (petechiae), usually on the lower legs 3 Prolonged bleeding from cuts 4 Bleeding from your gums or nose 5 Blood in urine or stools 6 Unusually heavy menstrual flows 7 Fatigue 8 Enlarged spleen
How many platelets are in thrombocytopenia?
Thrombocytopenia means you have fewer than 150,000 platelets per microliter of circulating blood. Because each platelet lives only about 10 days, your body normally renews your platelet supply continually by producing new platelets in your bone marrow.
What causes a shortage of platelets in the bloodstream?
Increased breakdown of platelets. Some conditions can cause your body to use up or destroy platelets faster than they're produced, leading to a shortage of platelets in your bloodstream. Examples of such conditions include: Pregnancy. Thrombocytopenia caused by pregnancy is usually mild and improves soon after childbirth.
What are the symptoms of thrombocytopenia?
Thrombocytopenia signs and symptoms may include: Easy or excessive bruising (purpura) Superficial bleeding into the skin that appears as a rash of pinpoint-sized reddish-purple spots (petechiae), usually on the lower legs. Prolonged bleeding from cuts.
What is the rare condition that occurs when small blood clots suddenly form throughout your body, using up large numbers
This is a rare condition that occurs when small blood clots suddenly form throughout your body, using up large numbers of platelets. Hemolytic uremic syndrome. This rare disorder causes a sharp drop in platelets, destruction of red blood cells and impairs kidney function. Medications.
When do you need a platelet transfusion?
You may also need to have a transfusion if your platelet count is higher than 10,000 mcL and you’re having a lot of bleeding, an invasive procedure (going into the body through a cut, slit, or puncture), or signs of other disorders. If you bleed a lot during your monthly period, talk with your doctor.
What is the normal platelet count?
They are made in your bone marrow, which is the soft, spongy center in most of your large bones. A normal platelet count is 150,000 to 400,000 platelets per microliter (mcL) of blood.
How to stop bowel movements?
Try not to blow your nose. If you need to blow your nose, do it gently. If you’re straining to have bowel movements, talk with your healthcare provider about using stool softeners or laxatives.
How to stop bleeding from nose?
Apply direct pressure on the area that’s bleeding. If you have a nosebleed, apply ice and pressure over the bridge of your nose. After applying pressure, call your Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) doctor. If you can’t reach your doctor and you can’t control the bleeding, go to your local emergency room.
Can cancer lower platelet count?
Cancer and cancer treatments can lower your platelet counts. When your platelet counts are low, you’re at risk for bleeding. If your doctor has told you that you have a low platelet count, it’s very important to try to avoid getting hurt. We have listed some general ways you can prevent bleeding.
What does it mean when your platelets are low?
Platelets are one of these types of blood cells. The medical terms for a low level of platelets are "low platelet count" or "thrombocytopenia."
What causes low platelet count?
Cancer that spreads to the bone. Some cancers that spreads to the bone may cause a low platelet count. The cancer cells in the bones can make it difficult for the bone marrow inside of bones to make platelets. Cancer in the spleen. Your spleen is an organ in your body.
Why are platelets important?
Platelets help stop bleeding when needed. For example, if you cut yourself, platelets make the blood cells clump together, or clot. This blocks off the cut blood vessels so they can heal. Normal platelet levels in your blood are important for your health.
How long does a platelet transfusion last?
However, this is a temporary treatment. The platelets from a transfusion only last about 3 days.
What is the blood test for cancer?
You will have regular blood tests when you have cancer to monitor your overall health. One test is called a platelet count. It checks the number of platelets in your blood, and shows if the count is low. A platelet count can be done as part of a blood test called a complete blood count.
What is platelet count?
A platelet count can be done as part of a blood test called a complete blood count. You may have a platelet count test done more often if you have certain types of cancer or treatments that may cause blood or bone marrow problems.
When to wait for platelet count to be normal?
Before surgery. If you are preparing for surgery and have a low platelet count, you may need to wait until your platelet counts are normal again to have the operation. This lowers the risk of heavy bleeding. When platelet counts are very low, you may receive a transfusion.
Why is my platelet count low?
As noted earlier, a low platelet count is sometimes due to more than one cause during cancer treatment. Looking at platelet counts over time (serial platelet measurements) can often be helpful in understanding whether chemotherapy alone is the culprit.
What are the symptoms of low platelet count?
When signs and symptoms are present, they may include: Easy bruising: Large, reddish-blue patches known as ecchymoses may occur.
What is the most common treatment for thrombocytopenia?
Platelet transfusions are the most common method of treating thrombocytopenia, especially short-term thrombocytopenia related to chemotherapy drugs. Transfusions can be used as a therapy (to increase platelets in those who are actively bleeding) or preventively (for those with a low or expected low platelet count but who are not bleeding).
How long does it take for thrombocytopenia to go down after chemo?
Thrombocytopenia related to chemotherapy is often a short term problem. Platelet levels begin to drop around one week after a chemotherapy session and reach the lowest level (the nadir) at around 14 days following an infusion. Platelets in the bloodstream live approximately eight to 10 days and are rapidly replenished.
What is thrombocytopenia treatment?
Treatment. Coping. Thrombocytopenia is defined as a decreased number of platelets in the blood. A low platelet count can, in turn, result in bleeding and/or the need to delay chemotherapy.
What is the purpose of a med to stimulate platelets?
Medications That Stimulate Platelet Formation. Medications are sometimes used to stimulate the bone marrow to make more platelets , though these are used infrequently in people who have thrombocytopenia due to chemotherapy, and there is currently little evidence to support their routine use. 2 .
Why do people get thrombocytopenia?
Causes During Cancer Treatment. The most common cause of thrombocytopenia in people with cancer is bone marrow suppression related to chemotherapy. Chemotherapy destroys rapidly dividing cells, such as those in the bone marrow which become platelets. In addition to thrombocytopenia, bone marrow suppression from chemotherapy may result in ...
What happens when your platelet count is low?
When platelet counts are low, thrombocytopenia can set in and leave you at risk, most dangerously for internal bleeding. Platelets are just one of many cell types that make up the blood floating through your body. They are colorless, while the other components of blood, white cells and red cells, are characterized by their hue.
What is the medical term for a low platelet count?
Thrombocytopenia is the medical term used to describe a low platelet count. Blood platelets are the tiny cells responsible for clotting the blood when you cut yourself. They help stop bleeding by clumping together and acting as plugs when you experience a blood vessel injury. When platelet counts are low, thrombocytopenia can set in ...
What foods can you eat to treat thrombocytopenia?
Folate can be found in leafy greens like spinach and asparagus, as well as avocado, lentils and beets. Basically, try to limit processed foods and eat an array of fruits, vegetables, fresh meats, legumes, and healthy fats. Other steps you can take to treat thrombocytopenia include: Blood platelet transfusion.
How long do platelets stay in the blood?
Blood platelets are produced in the bone marrow and remain in the blood for roughly 10 days until they are naturally destroyed.
Why are my platelets low?
Some other causes of low platelet counts include: 1. Medication. A variety of medications have the ability to thin your blood and lower the count of blood-clotting platelets.
What are the factors that affect platelet count?
Environmental toxins can also play a role in platelet count, and they can be both naturally occurring and man-made.#N#Their effect usually comes by way of exacerbating an existing autoimmune condition. These can include products like pesticides, herbicides, plastics, toxins produced by grains and mushrooms, polyurethane, and wood preservatives.
What is the color of thrombocytopenia?
They are colorless, while the other components of blood, white cells and red cells, are characterized by their hue. Often the result of another health condition, thrombocytopenia typically appears alongside severe illnesses like leukemia or other illnesses that impact the immune system.