What are some symtoms of low blood platelets?

[Elsone]

I am a 57 year old male with stage 4 of Hep. C geno. (1a)? I have been diagnosed for 35 yrs. In the last 5 yrs symtoms of Hep C started; painful joints, nausea slight, headaches, extreme fatigue, (have had low platelets since 2004) anywhere from 66 down to 20 and to the point where the Lab could noteven  get a count due to excess clumping. Since January of 2009 I have experienced extreme pain in left eye which feels like the optic nerve is being pulled out! The pain has increased in my back, all of my joints, to the point where walking is difficult at times. If a flea bites me (have 2 cats so fleas are here & there) but it takes literally 2 months to heal from flea bites, and it bleeds quite awhile. Now I am at the point where I fall asleep at anytime of the day. My Oncologist is only giving me prednisone to raise my platelets. Which by the way have dropped since taking 20mgs 2 X daily. My readings have gone fron 47 to 20 up to 46 then down to 46 since taking the prednisone.
Why can't I have a platelet transfusion? My Dr says I show no signs of anemia yet all of my Labs come back with my RBC running 3.68 to 3.60. They say everything is OK! Then why do I feel like death? Thank you for the time, sorry this was so lengthy, I need answers  Elsone

[Dr Santos]

Hi Elsone,
Merry Christmas! I'm afraid, I have not read your previous posts.  ITP in adults are usually mild and may not require treatment. Just regular monitoring of the platelet levels is enough. Treatment is usually aimed at increasing the blood platelet count. Continue with your prednisone and if it does not help, talk to your doctor about this.  Removal of the spleen may also be considered.  It is important that you avoid medicines that may decrease your platelet count, such as over-the-counter drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen. Alcohol intake is also a no-no because it can decrease the ability of your blood to clot. Take care always.

[Elsone]

Hello,

I was not sure if you had been following my reports. But I did find out ITP is something my Oncologist diagnosed along with many others. He does not seem interested in treating it except with prednisone for now, probably just to try to get my platelets up as soon as possible. They run between 20,47, and 66. I find out on the 1st where they are again. Blood tests are frequently done. I am feeling stronger, still bruise quite easily, and still very concerned about my blood count and platelets. So far, so good. Just so afraid of falling and hurting myself then bleeding internally. Thank you for your interest and concern. Hard to find an MD now days that really cares. Thank you, Elsone

[Dr Santos]

Hi Elsone,
How are you? Low platelet count may present with petecchiae or bleeding tendencies. There are some cases that there are no symptoms observed. Talk to your doctor about this first and discuss your treatment plan and the reason behind why platelet transfusion is not being considered.   Your medical history and symptoms are essential factors in your treatment. Take care and do keep us posted.

[pedinurse]

Find another doctor!!!!!  If my RBC count goes below 10.0, my oncologist prescribes a transfusion of 2 units of PRBCs (Packed red blood cells).  I'm undergoing chemotherapy, but my platelets have never been lower than the 100s.  If you can't change doctors, then demand an answer for his refusal to do anything about the low platelets, and low RBCs.  Unless the lab he uses, has a different range for what is normal, he should taking some kind of action.   Let me know!!  Love ya, Teresa