Overview

Thrombocytopenia is a medical condition characterised by a lower-than-normal level of platelets in the blood. Platelets are essential for blood clotting, and low platelet counts can lead to increased bleeding or difficulty in clotting after an injury. Various factors, including underlying medical conditions, medications, or autoimmune disorders, can cause thrombocytopenia. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.

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Causes of Thrombocytopenia

Autoimmune Diseases- One of the biggest causes of the disease is an autoimmune disorder. The condition is known as immune thrombocytopenic purpura. It happens when the immune system is unable to clot the blood properly because the immune system loses blood-clotting platelets.

The specific cause of the condition is still not known by the researchers. Hence, it is estimated that viral infections add to the damage. Pregnant females are also at a higher risk of getting affected by the low platelet disorder. People who have rheumatoid arthritis or lupus are also at risk of getting affected by the disease.

- Blood Cancer- Different forms of blood cancers, such as leukaemia and lymphoma, are also among the causes of low platelet counts. These forms of blood cancer affect the healthy blood platelets and push them out from the bone marrow. The treatment to cure the form of cancer also damages the healthy blood platelets, lowering their count. In such cases, the cancer also spreads to the bone and worsens the situation if not treated at the right time.
- Splenomegaly- It is a spleen disorder in which the spleen becomes enlarged due to different bacterial attacks or infections of the spleen. An enlarged spleen traps more than required blood platelets. It is also termed as an overactive spleen.
- Alcoholism- Alcoholism is also one of the significant causes of platelet disease. People consuming alcohol at a higher level may experience low blood pressure and a disturbed working of the central nervous system. Hence, high alcohol consumption is one of the major causes of the disorder. Therefore, doctors advise lowering the habit and gradually quitting it as well to avoid worsening the situation and avoid other similar issues.
- Viral Infections- Different types of viral infections, with protozoa, bacteria, and viruses, are also the primary cause of the disease. The infections lower the platelet count and make the affected individual weak with low immunity to stay protected from different forms of other medical issues.
- Medications- Certain drugs, such as chemotherapy or heparin, can induce thrombocytopenia.
- Viral Infections- Viruses such as HIV, hepatitis C, or Epstein-Barr virus can affect platelet production.

Symptoms of Thrombocytopenia

- Bleeding Gums- When the blood platelets are less than the average level or below 10,000 blood platelets, one may experience bleeding gums, nose, or gut. The affected individual may feel bleeding even in case of harsh brushing of teeth or any external damage to the gums.
- Bloody Urine or Stool- Another disease symptom is the visibility of blood in the urine and stool. Though it may appear like a typical bacterial infection initially, it should not be ignored as it may lead to a worsening of the situation. Hence, in such situations, it is advised to seek professional medical help to lower the signs of damaging symptoms.
- Bloody Vomits- Another primary identifiable symptom of the issue is bloody vomit. It happens due to bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. The issue may begin with a small amount of blood in the vomit, which increases gradually if left untreated for a longer time. Hence, in such instances, it is advised to get a professional medical checkup to tap the root cause and get proper and required medical treatment.
- Heavy Menstrual Flow- Females experiencing periods for more than seven days may also suffer from thrombocytopenia. Such issues should not be ignored for a longer time and should be treated with the required treatment to avoid worsening scenarios.
- Easy Bruising- Increased susceptibility to bruising, even with minor injuries or trauma.
- Petechiae- Tiny, red or purple spots on the skin, often resembling a rash.
- Nosebleeds- Frequent or unexplained nosebleeds.

Treatment Options for Thrombocytopenia

The treatment of low platelet issues can be treated by treating the underlying cause. Hence, treatments vary for each patient depending upon the severity of the situation.

- Steroids- Steroids help to increase the low platelet count and avoid the symptoms of the disease. Different types of steroids are given by doctors depending on the form of the issue and its severity.
- Blood Transfusion- In case of extremely low platelet count, doctors may recommend a blood transfusion. The procedure helps to maintain the platelet count for a few days, further accompanied by a healthy diet and lifestyle.
- Splenectomy- If an enlarged spleen is responsible for platelet destruction, surgical removal (splenectomy) may be considered.
- Bone Marrow Stimulants- In some cases, medications that stimulate bone marrow to produce more platelets may be used.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert cardiology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Thrombocytopenia is a blood platelet disorder that happens due to different medical issues. It can be cured by different methods depending upon the severity of the situation.

FAQs

Q. What is thrombocytopenia? A. It is a blood platelet disorder that leads to a meagre blood platelet count, causing different medical issues.

Q. What are the causes of thrombocytopenia? A. Viral infection, splenomegaly, and different forms of blood cancers are some possible causes of the disease.

Q. What are the symptoms of thrombocytopenia? A. Blood in urine and stools, blood in vomits, and heavy menstrual flow are some symptoms of thrombocytopenia.

Q. What are the treatment options for thrombocytopenia? A. Some of the treatment options to cure the blood platelet issue are steroids and blood transfusion.

Q. Which lifestyle changes can help to prevent the recurrence of thrombocytopenia? A. Habits such as quitting smoking and alcohol, good oral care, avoiding activities that can cause bleeding, and safe travelling can help to reverse the issue and prevent its recurrence.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/bone-marrow-disorders-types-causes-and-treatment/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14430-thrombocytopenia