Low Platelet Count: What Causes It and How to Treat It

The importance of platelets in the body cannot be overstated. Platelets are small cells that travel through the blood and are important for many bodily functions, including clotting and building up of blood vessels. Unfortunately, low platelet counts, defined as less than 150,000 platelets per microliter of blood, can affect many people and can be dangerous. Knowing what causes low platelet counts and how to treat them can help prevent long-term health complications.

What Causes Low Platelet Counts?

An abnormally low platelet count can be the result of many different causes. In some cases, the cause is due to “immune” or “autoimmune” destruction of the platelets, meaning the body’s own defense reaction attacks the platelets. This is especially common with certain medications such as chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In some cases, low platelet numbers can result from bone marrow problems, either due to an infection, abnormality, or drug reaction. Low platelet counts can also occur from other diseases such as diabetes, cirrhosis, and anemia.

Treatment Options

The treatment option for people with low platelets depends largely on the cause of the decreased platelet count. Regardless, it’s important that a doctor should be consulted, as the underlying cause of the low platelet count must be identified before proper treatment can occur.

In many cases, treating the cause is the only viable option for increasing platelet levels. For example, if an individual’s low platelet count is due to an infection, antibiotics can remove the infection and lead to higher platelet numbers. If an individual’s low platelet count is due to a medication or chemotherapy they are taking, it might be necessary to stop or alter the medication in order to regain higher platelet levels.

If an individual’s low platelet count is due to an autoimmune disorder, immunosuppressive drugs may need to be taken to control the body’s immune system and reduce its attack on platelets. It’s important to note that this treatment must be closely monitored by a doctor as it can have other serious side effects.

Finally, if the underlying cause cannot be determined or treated, a person may require a blood transfusion in order to boost their platelet numbers.

TIPS on How to Raise Platelet Counts

It’s also important for people with low platelet counts to eat a healthy and balanced diet containing B vitamins, as well as foods containing iron, zinc, and Vitamin C. Regular exercise can also help to promote overall health. Finally, avoiding alcohol and illicit drugs can also help by preventing further health complications.

It’s important to remember that low platelet counts can be serious and should not be ignored. If a person notices any signs of low platelet counts including bleeding or bruising more often than usual, they should contact their doctor immediately. By understanding what causes low platelet counts and how to treat them, individuals can avoid long-term health complications.