The signs that platelets are increasing are related to the complications that arise from having too many platelets. These can include both excessive blood clotting and bleeding. The condition of having too many platelets is called thrombocythemia.
Understanding Thrombocythemia
Thrombocythemia is when your bone marrow makes too many platelets. Platelets are blood cells that help your blood clot. When platelet counts are too high, it can lead to a variety of health problems.
Signs and Symptoms
The increased number of platelets can manifest in two major ways:
-
Blood Clots:
- Too many platelets can cause blood clots to form in blood vessels. This can be dangerous, leading to complications such as:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Clots in the deep veins, often in the legs.
- Pulmonary embolism (PE): Clots that travel to the lungs.
- Stroke: Clots in the blood vessels of the brain.
- Too many platelets can cause blood clots to form in blood vessels. This can be dangerous, leading to complications such as:
-
Bleeding:
- Paradoxically, despite an increased number of platelets which should cause more clotting, there can be bleeding.
- This can manifest as:
- Bruises easily and frequently
- Bloody stools
- Weakness due to blood loss
Table Summarizing Symptoms
| Symptom Category | Specific Signs |
|---|---|
| Blood Clots | DVT, PE, Stroke |
| Bleeding | Bruising, Bloody stools, Weakness |
It's important to note that having any of these symptoms does not definitively mean you have thrombocythemia, but rather they can be indications that a medical professional should investigate.
Important Note: If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. These symptoms should not be self-diagnosed, but rather investigated by a qualified medical professional.
