Platelets have a very important role in the human body as they are a fundamental part of the process of blood coagulation which helps us prevent bleeding in case of wounds and injuries, and allows proper flow of blood throughout our bodies. A normal platelet count ranges from 150000-450000. However, certain conditions may make the amount go up, which poses a risk to our health. In OneHowTo we explain why platelets increase in our blood.
The increase in the number of platelets is known medically as thrombocytosis. When the count is high the patient is at risk of blood clots obstructing blood vessels and can cause serious health problems such as strokes (ACV), myocardial infarction or thrombosis in the extremities.
For this reason, you should contact your doctor after a blood test if a high count of platelets is found.
Infections such as those from viruses or bacteria are the most common cause of increased blood platelets. It is usually sufficient to diagnose the type and source of infection and to prescribe a treatment. With the correct treatment the platelets will then return to normal levels (in most cases) in a few weeks.
A poor diet, unbalanced or low in nutrients, can also be the cause of increased platelet levels and iron deficiency anaemia. It is a reaction of the body, as with the decline of red blood cells derived from the absence of iron the body produces more platelets.
Platelets can also be high due to nephrotic syndrome, a disease caused by various disorders resulting in kidney damage. When suffering this condition the patient has protein in the urine whilst in the blood protein levels are low and cholesterol and triglycerides are high. To diagnose this condition a doctor must carry out a series of examinations.
A high platelet count could be an indicator of the presence of tumours. Cancers such as ovarian, lung or breast cancer present a condition known as paraneoplastic thrombocytosis. At the moment there is no scientific evidence that a high platelet count can lead to cancer. However, many medical researchers are studying the relationship between tumours and high platelet counts.
Other conditions such as deep trauma caused by an accident, or the very unusual Kawasaki disease, can cause the number of platelets in the blood to rise.
If after a complete blood test results show a high platelet count exceeding 450,000, you must see a doctor for a full check up. Only a specialist is able to make an accurate diagnosis and investigate the cause of the rise of platelets in the blood.
If you think you might have a high platelet level you might be interested to know the symptoms of a high platelet level or, on the contrary, the symptoms of low platelets.
This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.
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