Thrombocytopenia is a condition caused by a low platelet count. Platelets are colorless blood cells that help in blood clotting. Typically, platelets curtail the bleeding by forming clumps in the blood vessels during injuries. However, immune system issues, leukemia or other bone marrow disorders, and some prescriptions can decrease the platelet count in adults and children. People with mild thrombocytopenia have few symptoms, but in extreme situations, it can lead to internal bleeding.

What is the normal platelet count?
In an adult, a normal platelet count ranges between 150,000 to 450,000 per microliter of blood. Broadly, the thrombocytopenia levels are as follows:

Severe thrombocytopenia
The platelet count ranges between 21,000 and 51,000 per microliter of blood.
Moderate thrombocytopenia
The platelet count ranges between 51,000 and 100,000 per microliter of blood.
Mild thrombocytopenia
The platelet count ranges between 100,000 and 140,000 per microliter of blood.

Symptoms
People typically do not feel anything when they have low platelets since it does not cause any symptoms. However, here are some symptoms that can be noted in certain cases.

Enlarged spleen
It occurs when the spleen traps the platelets, a typical cause of low platelet count.
Fatigue
Generally, low platelets do not make one feel fatigued, but other conditions that result in low platelets can make one feel exhausted.
Bruises and blotches
One might experience large bleeding surfaces underneath the skin that do not turn white upon pressing. In addition, one may observe bruises that seem to be the result of a bump or impact; these tend to be blue or purple initially and then transition to yellow or green over time. The abrupt leakage from small blood vessels internally induces these marks. The technical term for such occurrences is purpura.
Flat, red spots on the skin
One might notice spots that appear in clumps on the feet and legs. These are called petechiae, and they do not turn white upon applying pressure.
Bleeding
It is one of the most common symptoms, and one may experience nose or gum bleeding. Thrombocytopenia may also result in longer or heavier periods or breakthrough bleeding. Some people also spot blood in the poop or pee.

Causes
Low platelet causes broadly fall under one of the below-listed three categories:

The bone marrow does not make adequate platelets. It occurs if one has blood cancers like lymphoma or leukemia.
The spleen traps platelets so they do not circulate through the bloodstream. Typically, the spleen stores approximately 33 percent of the platelet supply.
The bone marrow makes adequate platelets, but one’s platelet supply is low because one suffers from certain conditions that exhaust the platelet supply or destroy it.

Some prevalent low platelet causes are:

Blood cancers
Lymphoma and leukemia damage the bone marrow and affect its ability to make adequate blood cells.
Toxic chemicals
Exposure to toxic chemicals, including pesticides, benzene, or arsenic, may impact the platelet count.
Infections
Viral and bacterial infections may also decrease the platelet count.
Autoimmune disorders
Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and immune thrombocytopenia that attack the immune system also destroy platelets.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
It is a blood disorder that causes blood clots in the small blood vessels across the body. Platelets are responsible for making blood clots. TPP or disseminated intravascular coagulation (a similar condition) consumes the platelets, leading to a decreased platelet supply.
Cancer treatments
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy destroy stem cells that could have been platelets.
Prescription treatments
Treatments for heart conditions, seizures, or blood thinners lower the platelet count.

Treatment
Low platelets usually last for months or years. Those with mild conditions do not require any treatment. However, depending on the severity and causes, doctors may suggest thrombocytopenia treatment for people with symptoms. When a prescription treatment or an underlying condition causes thrombocytopenia, addressing the problem can cure it. For instance, doctors may prescribe a different blood thinner if one has heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Other treatments might include:

Platelet or blood transfusions
When the platelet level is dangerously low, doctors may suggest platelets or packed RBC transfusions.
Plasma exchange
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura might lead to an emergency requiring a plasma exchange.
Surgery
Doctors may suggest a spleen removal surgery when other treatment options do not work.
Prescription treatments
The doctor may suggest prescription options to increase the platelet count if the condition is linked to an immune system condition.

Lifestyle and natural remedies
People with low platelets must try and lead a healthy lifestyle and note the following lifestyle tips and natural remedies:

Avoid activities that can trigger an injury
Ask the doctor about the activities that are safe for one with the condition. Contact sports like football, martial arts, and boxing carry a high risk of injury.
Practice dental hygiene
One must be careful and avoid dental treatments that trigger bleeding.
Travel safe
Wear a seatbelt while riding or driving a vehicle.