Do you have a high platelets count?
If you fall into the category, you’ve probably wondered at one point or another what a high platelet count means. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of what high platelet count means and what factors might contribute to it. We’ll also outline some common symptoms associated with high platelet counts and how to treat them. So, whether you’re concerned about your own high platelets count or you know of someone who is, read on for all the information you need to know.
What Are High Platelets Count?
A high platelet count is a condition that can result in blood clots and bleeding. These clots can be dangerous and even life-threatening if they form in a vital area of the body. A high platelet count can occur as a result of another disease or condition called essential thrombocythemia, or because of a faulty bone marrow cell that produces too many platelets.
A normal platelet count is between 150,000 and 400,000 per microliter (MCL) of blood. This range reflects the normal range of platelet levels that allow most people to function without health problems.
What Are The Causes of High Platelets Count?
The shift in platelet is because of some disorders, such as autoimmune disorders and some forms of cancer. Usually, these conditions resolve and the platelet count will return to normal once they are treated.
There are other causes of high platelet counts that don’t involve diseases or conditions, including a genetic disorder. These conditions can cause too many platelets to be made in the bone marrow, which is where most of the cells that make your blood are made.
Symptoms of High Platelets
If you have high platelets, you may experience the following symptoms:4
- Pain when moving any part of your body
- Frequent migraines or headaches
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands
- Acne or skin rash
How To Diagnose High Platelets?
There are a few different types of blood tests used to check the platelet count in your bloodstream. These include a complete blood count and a peripheral blood smear. A complete blood count can show how many red blood cells and white blood cells are in your bloodstream, while a peripheral blood smear analyzes the blood sample to determine the number of platelets present.
Getting a platelet count done is quick and easy. A technician collects a small amount of blood from your vein and then places it into a machine that counts the platelets. Most patients don’t feel any discomfort during the test, and it generally only takes a few minutes to get the results.
Your platelet count is measured in milligrams of a type of protein called hemoglobin. This is a part of your blood that carries oxygen from your lungs to your tissues and helps your cells to grow.
Some people have very low platelet counts, which are known as thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia can be mild and doesn’t cause any symptoms, but it can also cause bleeding in the urine or stool. Some people may also experience a skin rash of superficial bleeding called petechiae.
This test can also be ordered if your platelet count is too low for other tests. It can be done before or after a blood transfusion, and it may help doctors know if you are at risk for blood clots or have any other medical concerns.
Thrombocytosis can also be the result of scarring of your bone marrow after a long illness or injury. This is called secondary thrombocytosis, and it can happen in some people who have cancer or other chronic illnesses.
Treatment for High Platelets Count
Doctors prescribed some medication that can lower the platelets and balance them. If the cause is chronic renal failure, then dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary. If the cause is cancer or another condition, then treatment may include surgery or radiation therapy. If not treated properly sometimes it leads to high platelet count and cancer which highly worsens the condition. So don’t wait too long just visit the doctor to discuss the possible solution.
Read a blog related low platelets & cancer.
Hematology BMT
Dr. S. K. Gupta, the famous Oncologist has more than decade of experience in High Platelet count and maintenance. Regular checkups and right treatment is what he believes in providing. You can get in touch with the expert doctor of Hematology BMT today and know more about the High Platelets Count.
