Doctor explains LOW PLATELET COUNT (Thrombocytopenia) | Causes, symptoms and more

In this video Doctor O'Donovan explains key things you need to know about thrombocytopenia - a condition that occurs when the platelet count in your blood is too low.

What are platelets?
Platelets are tiny blood cells that are made in the bone marrow from larger cells. When you are injured, platelets stick together to form a plug to seal your wound. This plug is called a blood clot. Platelets are also called thrombocytes, because a blood clot is also called a thrombus.

What is a normal platelet count?
A normal platelet count in adults ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. A platelet count of less than 150,000 platelets per microliter is lower than normal. When you have a low platelet count, you may have trouble stopping bleeding. Bleeding can happen inside your body, underneath your skin, or from the surface of your skin. You may not have serious bleeding until your platelet count is very low.

What are the symptoms?

Bleeding causes the main symptoms of thrombocytopenia. Symptoms can appear suddenly or over time. Mild thrombocytopenia often has no symptoms. Many times, it is found during a routine blood test.

Signs of bleeding may include:
- Bleeding that lasts a long time, even from small injuries
- Petechiae, which are small, flat red spots under the skin caused by blood leaking from blood vessels
- Purpura, which is bleeding in your skin that can cause red, purple, or brownish- yellow spots
- Nosebleeds or bleeding from your gums
- Blood in your urine or stool, which can appear as red blood or as a dark, tarry color
- Heavy menstrual bleeding

To diagnose thrombocytopenia, your provider will ask about your medical and family history. They will also ask about your symptoms and do a physical exam to look for signs of bleeding and do a blood test.

This is an educational resource only and should NEVER replace medical advice from your own health provider.
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Content and timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction
00:17 - What does a low platelet count mean?
00:33 - How common is a low platelet count?
01:46 - What causes a low platelet count?
03:00 - Tests for low platelet count
03:22 - Potential treatment options

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References and resources

Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-c...

USA: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/thro...

#doctor #health #bloodtests #thrombocytopenia #lowplatelets

Video published: 21st April 2024. Next review: 2027.
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Disclaimer:

The video is intended as an educational resource only. The information within this video or on this channel isn't designed to replace professional input, so if you have any medical issues please consult a medical provider. No professional relationship is being created by watching this video. Dr. O'Donovan cannot give any individual medical advice. All information should be verified for accuracy by the individual user. Dr O'Donovan accepts no responsibility for individual interpretation of data, although it is always accurate to the best of his knowledge at the time of the video being published. This is an EDUCATIONAL video. Images are used in accordance with fair use guidelines.

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