The Role of Platelets in Blood Health:
- Platelets are small cell fragments essential for blood clotting, helping to stop bleeding by clumping and forming plugs in blood vessel injuries.
- Normal platelet levels are typically between 150,000 and 450,000 per microliter of blood. When platelet levels are within this range, your body can efficiently manage minor cuts and injuries without excessive bleeding.
Low Platelet Levels (Thrombocytopenia):
- Symptoms: Bruising easily, excessive bleeding from cuts, prolonged menstruation, and nosebleeds.
- Causes:
- Viral infections such as hepatitis or HIV
- Autoimmune diseases like lupus
- Bone marrow disorders or certain cancers
- Medications, such as chemotherapy
- Health Implications: In cases of thrombocytopenia, you are at an increased risk of internal or external bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not managed promptly.
High Platelet Levels (Thrombocytosis):
- Symptoms: May be asymptomatic but can lead to blood clots, chest pain, or stroke.
- Causes:
- Bone marrow disorders like essential thrombocythemia
- Inflammatory diseases
- Iron deficiency
- Post-surgery or recovery from major trauma
- Health Implications: High platelet levels may increase the risk of abnormal blood clotting, leading to conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), heart attack, or stroke.
How Platelet Levels Are Measured:
- Platelet counts are part of a Full Blood Count (FBC) test, a routine blood test that evaluates the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood. Abnormal platelet counts often require additional tests to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Recommended Tests:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test is vital for assessing overall blood health, including red and white blood cells, as well as platelet levels.
Complete Blood Count (CBC) - Serum Iron Test: Low iron can lead to high platelet levels. Checking serum iron can help identify the cause of thrombocytosis.
Serum Iron Test
