High Platelet Count: Unraveling the Causes and Implications
By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: May 2, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: May 2, 2024Table of Contents
In this article, we will explore what platelets are and their functions. See where high platelet count could come from, what issues it can cause, and how we test for it. We’ll even provide a guide on how to manage it. All while exploring the importance of staying healthy and proactive.
Platelets, also called thrombocytes, are small. But they play a big role in stopping blood loss after injury.
When you get a cut, platelets bind together to form a plug. This is called clotting. It helps to stop bleeding.
Platelets also help wounds repair. They release growth factors that help your body recover quicker.
The normal platelet count falls between 150,000 to 450,000 per microliter of blood.
Your healthcare provider may suggest a platelet count blood test. This test helps find how many platelets are in your blood. Weird platelet levels could point to health issues that need extra tests or solutions.
Did you know?
High platelet count falls into two groups: reactive thrombocytosis and essential thrombocythaemia.
Most often high platelets come from reactive thrombocytosis. This means having high plates due to an existing health issue. Some sources of reactive thrombocytosis are:
Certain kinds of bacteria are common culprits. These include MRSA and Escherichia coli to name a few.
Diseases like COPD and lupus can also force platelet numbers up.
Conditions linked to allergies, like hay fever or food allergies, can increase platelet counts.
Low red blood cells and haemoglobin can send platelet numbers up. This happens with iron-deficiency anaemia and hemolytic anaemia.
The absence of the spleen can also cause high platelets. This can be because of surgery or the spleen not working right.
Some drugs disrupt the normal balance of blood cells. This can lead to high platelets. Such drugs include certain beta-lactum antibiotics and corticosteroids.
Injuries or surgeries can also cause reactive thrombocytosis as the body tries to repair the wounds.
This is also known as primary thrombocytosis. It happens when there’s excess platelet production in the bone marrow. No clear cause for this can be found. It’s not common, but some gene changes are linked to it.
About half of those with essential thrombocythaemia have a specific JAK2 gene change. This plays a big part in causing this disorder.
Essential thrombocythaemia is seen as a rare blood cancer. Too many platelets are made in this condition.
Tiredness is one. Doing day-to-day tasks could be difficult. It also impacts the overall quality of life.
Headache is another sign. It can make you uncomfortable. Sometimes, it might even be very painful.
Some people also report dizziness. This can disrupt balance and coordination.
In some cases, high platelet counts can cause more serious health problems. These include the following.
A high platelet count can increase the risk of blood clots forming. These clots can cause dangerous health problems like a heart attack or a stroke.
While rare, very high platelet counts can cause weird bleeding. This can be things like nosebleeds or bloody stools.
The majority of thrombocytosis cases are identified around age 60. Essential thrombocythemia is diagnosed in women twice as frequently as in men.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D
Those with a high platelet count face certain risks. These include:
Blood clots due to high platelet count can cause heart attacks or strokes. These need quick medical help and can be deadly if not treated.
If an expecting mother has an uncontrolled high platelet count, risks are increased. These risks are miscarriage, high blood pressure during pregnancy, and premature birth. This is why regular tests and the right medical care are vital.
In rare cases, essential thrombocythaemia can turn into blood cancers or disorders. These include leukaemia and other rare blood disorders. Quick action can lessen these risks.
To my knowledge, thrombocytopenia (increased platelet count) is commonly seen in both mild and serious dengue conditions. One should consult their doctors to analyse the blood test reports precisely.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Once a high platelet count is found via blood tests, your healthcare provider will suggest further tests. These might include the following.
A CBC test looks at all blood cells. This includes white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.
A blood smear lets doctors see cells under a microscope.
An ultrasound can help detect any issues with organs like the liver or spleen. Things to look out for are swelling or inflammation.
In some cases, a CT scan is needed to look at organs in more detail.
Also, an MRI could be used to get a clear picture of the organs and vessels.
The final step might be a bone marrow biopsy. This means taking a small sample of bone marrow for checking. Doing this can see how cells grow and if there are signs of disease.
Also Read: How To Increase Platelet Count Naturally
Any infections might need antibiotics or antiviral drugs. Treating them can lower high platelets.
Proper control of long-term health problems may have a positive impact on high platelets.
These drugs may help avoid blood clots in those with high platelets.
Blood thinners may also help lower the chances of blood clots. They disrupt the body’s ability to clot blood.
Having a regular workout may keep you healthy and your blood flowing smoothly.
Eating a varied, healthy diet may help your body fight off illness. It also supports overall wellness.
Paying attention to reduce stress may help lessen platelet count and function. This could be through things like meditation or therapy.
Getting medical check-ups on a regular schedule helps to track your health. This helps notice issues early and work on them.
Keeping a balanced life with good exercise, diet, and stress control may keep off many health issues.
Working quickly on any health concerns reduces risks. Therefore, don’t wait before talking to your healthcare provider if anything seems off.
In short, it’s really important to know about and manage high platelet count for overall health. Being proactive in your health, including regular doctor visits, healthy living, and quick action is key. With all the information in this article, you’re now better equipped.
Also Read: Natural Blood Thinners: Research-Based Guide for Safe Alternatives
A high platelet count, or thrombocytosis, means more than normal platelets are in your blood. This might point to a deeper health concern or it could be just a reaction to infection, inflammation, or a temporary issue.
Yes, 500 (or 500,000 per microliter) is seen as a high count. This is because normal levels are from 150,000 to 450,000 per microliter of blood.
Any count above 450,000 per microliter is worrisome. The severity of the situation depends on the root cause and any possible health issues. Concerns might include a higher risk of blood clots or bleeding issues.
Several cancer types have been linked to high platelets. These include ovarian, lung, and breast cancer as well as some other types like lymphoma and leukaemia.
It’s time to worry if a high platelet count comes with signs like tiredness, headache, dizziness, blood clots, or bleeding. Speaking to your healthcare provider is vital to find out the root cause and what therapy might help.
High platelets can increase the risk of blood clots being formed. This can lead to serious problems like deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, heart attack, and stroke.
High platelets are often first found via laboratory tests like a CBC. Further tests like a CT scan or bone marrow biopsy might be used if required.
The most common signs of high platelets are fatigue, headache, and dizziness. But that being said, many times there are no symptoms. And people find out in routine blood checks.
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