About this topic
Thrombocytosis is a condition where you have more platelets than normal in your blood. Platelets are a kind of blood cell that helps your blood clot. Your bone marrow makes your platelets along with your red and white blood cells. Most often, you will not have any signs. Some people have signs like bruises, bleeding, or blood clots. Too many platelets can lead to stroke, heart problems, or blood clots. ‚
Thrombocytosis is caused by some other health problem or certain drugs. Your platelet count is high, but the platelets themselves are normal. ‚
What are the causes?
Other health problems that can cause this illness include: ‚
- Infection
- Swelling
- Surgery
- Allergic reactions
- Heart attack
- Having your spleen taken out
- Trauma
- Exercise
- Iron deficiency
- B12 deficiency
It is also caused by certain drugs. These may be used to treat cancer, breathing problems, or acne. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to have this condition if you have an illness or factor that puts you at risk to develop it or if you take certain drugs that can cause it. ‚
What are the main signs?
Most people with reactive thrombocytosis do not have signs. It is most often discovered during routine blood testing. However, signs that may be present include: ‚
- Blood clots
- Bruises
- Bleeding from the nose, mouth, gums, belly, or intestine
- Bloody stools
- Weakness
- Headache
- Numbness of the hands and feet
- Shortness of breath
- Changes in vision or ocular migraines
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- Past procedures or blood transfusions
- Recent infections and vaccines
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription, over-the-counter (OTC), and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor if you have any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any lifestyle changes like drinking too much beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol)
- Family history of high platelet count
- The signs you have
- Your doctor will do an exam and check:
- For any signs of blood clots and bleeding
- Your skin for bruises
- If your spleen is enlarged
- Your doctor may order tests like:
- Blood tests ¢ ˆ ’ To measure the amount of platelets in your blood. These also check how well your platelets are working. Blood tests can also check genetic factors that may change and cause high platelet counts.
- Bone marrow tests ¢ ˆ ’ Used to check if your bone marrow is working well. It is also used to find out if your bone marrow is making too many platelets. Your doctor will check the amount and the types of cells in your bone marrow.
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
- Your care will be based on what is causing your high platelet count.
- You may not need treatment if your condition is stable.
- Your doctor may treat the illness that is causing your high platelet count.
Are there other health problems to treat?
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Quit smoking. If you have problems quitting, ask for help.
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water each day.
- Keep a healthy weight.
- Keep a healthy blood pressure.
- Control other health problems that may be causing thrombocytosis, like diabetes.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Lower your platelet count
- Stop bleeding
- Thin blood
- Treat infection
Will there be any other care needed?
- Get regular checkups with your doctor.
- Be sure to take all the drugs ordered by your doctor.
- Tell all your other doctors that you are taking drugs to lower your platelet count before having any other surgery or procedures.
- Avoid taking other drugs used for pain and colds without talking with your doctor. Some drugs may raise the risk of bleeding.
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There is no sure way to prevent high platelet count. ‚
Where can I learn more?
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute ‚
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/thrm/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚