Doctor explains HIGH PLATELET COUNT (Thrombocytosis) | Causes, symptoms and more

In this video Doctor O'Donovan explains key things you need to know about thrombocytosis - a condition that occurs when the platelet count in your blood is high.

What are platelets?
Platelets are tiny blood cells that are made in the bone marrow from larger cells. When you are injured, platelets stick together to form a plug to seal your wound. This plug is called a blood clot. Platelets are also called thrombocytes, because a blood clot is also called a thrombus.

What is a normal platelet count?
A normal platelet count in adults ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. A platelet count of more than 450,000 platelets per microliter is higher than normal.

What are the symptoms of a high platelet count?

People with high platelet levels often don't have signs or symptoms. When symptoms occur, they're often related to blood clots. Examples include:

- Headache.
- Confusion or changes in speech.
- Chest pain.
- Shortness of breath and nausea.
- Weakness.
- Burning pain in the hands or feet.

Less commonly, very high platelet levels may cause bleeding. This can cause:

- Nosebleeds.
- Bruising.
- Bleeding from your mouth or gums.
- Bloody stool.

What causes a high platelet count?

There are two general causes: (1) Reactive thrombocytosis and (2) Essential thrombocythemia

Reactive thrombocytosis is the more common type of thrombocytosis. It's caused by an underlying medical problem, such as: blood loss, cancer, infections, iron deficiency, removal of your spleen, inflammatory disorders, injury, medications and surgery.

The cause of primary thrombocytosis is unclear. It often appears to be connected to changes in certain genes. The bone marrow produces too many of the cells that form platelets, and these platelets often don't work properly. This poses a much higher risk of clotting or bleeding complications than does reactive thrombocytosis.

This is an educational resource only and should NEVER replace medical advice from your own health provider.
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Content and timestamps:
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References and resources

Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thrombocytosis/

USA: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/thrombocythemia-thrombocytosis

#doctor #health #bloodtests #thrombocytopenia #lowplatelets

Video published: 24th April 2024. Next review: 2027.
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Disclaimer:

The video is intended as an educational resource only. The information within this video or on this channel isn't designed to replace professional input, so if you have any medical issues please consult a medical provider. No professional relationship is being created by watching this video. Dr. O'Donovan cannot give any individual medical advice. All information should be verified for accuracy by the individual user. Dr O'Donovan accepts no responsibility for individual interpretation of data, although it is always accurate to the best of his knowledge at the time of the video being published. This is an EDUCATIONAL video. Images are used in accordance with fair use guidelines.

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