WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is thrombocytopenia? Thrombocytopenia occurs when your body does not have enough platelets. Platelets are cells that help your blood clot. Your body may not be making enough platelets, or it may be destroying too many platelets. When platelets become low, your risk for bleeding increases. Severe bleeding may become life-threatening. What increases my risk for thrombocytopenia? - Pregnancy
- Dialysis
- Blood transfusions
- Medicines, such as heparin or NSAIDs
- Cancer treatments, such as chemo or radiation
What are the signs and symptoms of thrombocytopenia? Your signs and symptoms depend on your platelet count. A lower platelet count will cause more severe symptoms. You may not have any symptoms. You may bleed or bruise more easily or have tiny red or purple spots on your skin. You may feel tired or bleed from your gums or nose. You may have heavy menstrual bleeding or blood in your urine or bowel movement. How is thrombocytopenia diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will ask if you take any medicine or supplements. Tell him if you have other health conditions. You may need blood tests to count your platelets or time how fast your blood clots. How is thrombocytopenia treated? - Medicines can help increase platelet production and prevent bleeding.
- Platelet transfusions may be used to decrease the risk for bleeding or to stop severe bleeding.
How should I care for myself when my platelets are low? Examine your skin for minor bumps, scrapes, and cuts. These injuries can increase your risk for bleeding that can become life-threatening. - Use caution with skin and mouth care. Use a soft washcloth and a soft toothbrush. This can keep your skin and gums from bleeding. Keep your nails trimmed. If you shave, use an electric shaver.
- Do not strain when you have a bowel movement. This can increase pressure in your brain and could cause bleeding. Ask your healthcare provider about a stool softener or laxative if you are constipated. Do not use enemas or suppositories.
- Use a cool mist humidifier to increase moisture in your home. This may help prevent coughing or nosebleeds. Coughing can increase pressure in your brain and could cause bleeding.
- Avoid activities that may cause scratches or bruises. Wear shoes or slippers to protect your feet from injury. Ask your healthcare provider which activities are safe for you.
- Do not take aspirin or NSAIDs. These medicines can cause you to bleed and bruise more easily.
- Wear medical alert jewelry or carry a card that says you have thrombocytopenia. Ask your healthcare provider where to get these items.
Call 911 for any of the following: - You have chest pain, tightness, or heaviness that spreads to your shoulders, arms, jaw, neck, or back.
- You have weakness on one side of your body, a severe headache, difficulty speaking, or a change in vision.
When should I seek immediate care? - You have bleeding that does not stop after you elevate and place pressure on the area.
- You vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
- Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
- You suddenly feel lightheaded, dizzy, or weak.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have bleeding from your gums, mouth, or nose.
- You have irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding.
- You have blood in your urine or bowel movement.
- You have more bruises or small red or purple spots on your skin.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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