ICD-10: 15 Causes of Decreased Platelets

Decreased platelets, also known as thrombocytopenia, is a condition in which the platelet count falls below 150,000 per microliter of blood. Platelets are blood cells that help stop bleeding by clumping together and forming a clot. When the platelet count is low, it can take longer for bleeding to stop, and people may experience easy bruising or bleeding.

There are many causes of decreased platelets, including:

• Immune disorders: These disorders can cause the body to attack and destroy platelets.
• Medications: Some medications, such as heparin, can interfere with platelet function.
• Viral infections: Some viral infections, such as dengue fever, can cause decreased platelets.
• Bacterial infections: Some bacterial infections, such as sepsis, can cause decreased platelets.
• Cancer: Cancer can cause decreased platelets by damaging the bone marrow, where platelets are produced.
• Pregnancy: Pregnancy can cause a temporary decrease in platelets.
• Splenomegaly: This is a condition in which the spleen is enlarged. The spleen can trap platelets, leading to a decreased platelet count.
• Liver disease: Liver disease can interfere with the production of platelets.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: Vitamin B12 is necessary for the production of platelets. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to decreased platelets.
• Alcoholism: Alcoholism can damage the bone marrow, where platelets are produced.
• HIV: HIV can damage the bone marrow, where platelets are produced.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy can damage the bone marrow, where platelets are produced.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy can damage the bone marrow, where platelets are produced.
• Trauma: Trauma can cause bleeding, which can lead to a decreased platelet count.
• Inherited disorders: Some inherited disorders can cause decreased platelets.

The symptoms of decreased platelets can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some people may only experience easy bruising or bleeding, while others may experience more serious symptoms, such as:

• Bleeding gums
• Nosebleeds
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Blood in the urine or stool
• Easy bruising
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Confusion

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

The treatment for decreased platelets will depend on the cause of the condition. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. In other cases, treatment may include:

• Medications: Medications can be used to increase platelet production or to prevent bleeding.
• Blood transfusions: Blood transfusions can be used to increase the platelet count.
• Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove the spleen or to treat other underlying medical conditions that are causing decreased platelets.

The prognosis for decreased platelets depends on the cause of the condition. In some cases, the condition can be cured. In other cases, it may be a chronic condition that requires ongoing treatment.

How to Prevent Decreased Platelets

There are no surefire ways to prevent decreased platelets, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the condition, such as:

• Get vaccinated: Some viral infections, such as dengue fever, can cause decreased platelets. Getting vaccinated against these infections can help to reduce your risk of developing thrombocytopenia.
• Avoid medications that can interfere with platelet function: Some medications, such as heparin, can interfere with platelet function. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any medications you are taking.
• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet can help to support your immune system and reduce your risk of developing infections that can cause decreased platelets.
• Get regular exercise: Regular exercise can help to improve your overall health and well-being, which can help to reduce your risk of developing decreased platelets.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco: Alcohol and tobacco can damage the bone marrow, where platelets are produced. Avoiding these substances can help to reduce your risk of developing decreased platelets.

Tips and Tricks for Living with Decreased Platelets

If you have decreased platelets, there are some things you can do to manage your condition and reduce your risk of bleeding, such as:

• Avoid activities that could cause bleeding: Avoid activities that could cause you to bleed, such as contact sports or activities that involve sharp objects.
• Be careful when brushing your teeth: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle when brushing your teeth to avoid bleeding gums.
• Blow your nose gently: When you blow your nose, do so gently to avoid nosebleeds.
• Use a humidifier: A humidifier can help to keep the air moist, which can help to prevent nosebleeds.
• Avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen: These medications can interfere with platelet function and increase your risk of bleeding.
• Carry a medical ID: Carry a medical ID that states that you have decreased platelets. This can help medical personnel to provide you with the appropriate care in the event of an emergency.

Conclusion

Decreased platelets is a condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. The symptoms of decreased platelets can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment for decreased platelets will depend on the cause of the condition. There are no surefire ways to prevent decreased platelets, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the condition. If you have decreased platelets, there are some things you can do to manage your condition and reduce your risk of bleeding.