Confused about my platelet count

[Kaat1220]

I was told I had only 40 platelets. I am seeing numbers in the thousands that are considered low. Very confused. My doctor said that a normal platelet count is 100.

I also want to know if low platelets can be caused by:

1. menstrual cycle
2. herpes
3. taking acetomenofin/ibuprofen

I am having another blood test and am scared.

[SassyLassie]

Getting your thryoid up to par will help lots with the fatigue, I know some folks can be so tired with an under-active thyroid, they will fall asleep anywhere.

When will you have your blood work? I would be interested in hearing the results.

[Kaat1220]

Actually they did the blood test because I never feel well; I am always exhausted, have OCD, and am on disability. I hope that my next blood test is ok. I have read that sometimes, proteins in the blood can cause the platelets to clot together which gives a false number.

How would that be for irony? Because my platelets are doing what they are meant to do - clotting - it can cause a falsely low number.

I hope that is all it is. My thyroid is severely underactive, and they have prescribed Synthroid. Hopefully, this clears thing up.

Thanks for asking. ;-)

[SassyLassie]

All labs have a different reference range, in one of medical books, it says the normal range is 150,000 to 300,000. Thrombocytopenia (reduced platelet count) is usually caused, but not always, by certain infections, some anemias. They play an important role in blood coagulation and thrombus (clot) formation.

I am not about the menstrual cycle causing this, I have heard that pregnancy can. Also, excessive alcoholic consumption can reduce the number as can the blood thinner, Heparin.

There are so many things that can cause different blood results, and I imagine that your next test will be just fine. How have you been feeling?  I am sure your doc is on top of this, so, try to relax and try not to think too much on the next test.

Keep us posted.