apollo

Dangerous Levels of Platelets Explained

Know all about platelets, when they are dangerous, causes and symptoms of dangerous levels of platelets. Learn about the diagnosis and management of dangerous levels of platelets.

reviewerImg

Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt

Last updated on 21st Jul, 2025

Introduction

Platelets are tiny blood cells that help your body form clots to stop bleeding. However, having too few or too many platelets can lead to serious health problems. In this article, we’ll explain what dangerous platelet levels mean, their causes, symptoms, and how to manage them effectively.

What Are Platelets?

Platelets (also called thrombocytes) are essential for blood clotting. When you get a cut or injury, platelets rush to the site, stick together, and form a plug to prevent excessive bleeding. A normal platelet count ranges between 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood.

When Platelet Levels Become Dangerous

1. High Platelet Count (Thrombocytosis) – When platelet counts exceed 450,000, it can cause abnormal clotting, leading to strokes or heart attacks.

2. Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia) – When counts drop below 150,000, excessive bleeding or bruising can occur.

Both conditions require medical attention to prevent complications.

Causes of Abnormal Platelet Levels

High Platelet Count (Thrombocytosis)

It is of two types:

Primary Thrombocythemia – A bone marrow disorder where the body produces too many platelets.

Secondary Causes – Infections, iron deficiency, surgery, inflammation (like rheumatoid arthritis), or cancer.

Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia)

It is of three types:

  1. Decreased Production – Due to leukaemia, vitamin deficiencies (B12/folate), or chemotherapy.

  2. Increased Destruction – Autoimmune diseases (like ITP), infections (Dengue, HIV), or certain medications.

  3. Enlarged Spleen – Traps platelets, reducing their count in circulation.

Consult a Top haematologist for the best advice

Dr Abilash Jain, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Abilash Jain

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS,DNB(FM),MNAMS,FIAMS,CCGMG(GERIATRICS),DGM (GERIATRICS),PGCD(DIABETES,BOSTON UNIVERSITY),FID(DIABETICS UK)CCEPC(PALLIATIVE CARE),CCCC(CRITICAL CARE)

Visakhapatnam

Apollo Clinic Vizag, Visakhapatnam

500

75 Cashback

500

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

recommendation

89%

(125+ Patients)

1000

150 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Symptoms to Watch For

High Platelet Symptoms

The symptoms include:

  1. Headaches or dizziness

  2. Chest pain or shortness of breath

  3. Numbness in hands/feet

  4. Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)

Low Platelet Symptoms

The symptoms include:

  1. Easy bruising or petechiae (tiny red spots)

  2. Prolonged bleeding from cuts

  3. Nosebleeds or gum bleeding

  4. Heavy menstrual bleeding

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.

How Are Platelet Disorders Diagnosed?

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) test measures platelet levels. If abnormal, further tests may be needed:

  1. Bone marrow biopsy (for persistent high/low counts)

  2. Blood clotting tests

  3. Ultrasound (to check for clots or spleen issues)

You can easily book a CBC test or consult a haematologist on Apollo 24|7 for quick diagnosis.

Managing Dangerous Platelet Levels

For High Platelets (Thrombocytosis)

  1. Medications – Blood thinners (aspirin) or platelet-lowering drugs (hydroxyurea).

  2. Lifestyle Changes – Stay hydrated, avoid smoking, and exercise regularly to improve circulation.

  3. Dietary Tips – Eat garlic, ginger, and omega-3-rich foods (salmon, flaxseeds) to reduce clotting risk.

For Low Platelets (Thrombocytopenia)

  1. Medications – Steroids or immune-suppressing drugs (if autoimmune-related).

  2. Avoid Injury – Be cautious with sharp objects, contact sports, or heavy lifting.

  3. Dietary Support – Increase vitamin C (citrus fruits), leafy greens (for folate), and lean proteins.

When to See a Doctor?

Seek immediate medical help if you notice:

  • Unexplained bruising or bleeding

  • Severe headaches or vision changes

  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent life-threatening complications.

Final Thoughts

Dangerous platelet levels can silently harm your health, but with awareness and timely care, they can be managed effectively. If you suspect an issue, get tested early and consult a specialist to stay safe.

Consult a Top haematologist for the best advice

Dr Abilash Jain, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Abilash Jain

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS,DNB(FM),MNAMS,FIAMS,CCGMG(GERIATRICS),DGM (GERIATRICS),PGCD(DIABETES,BOSTON UNIVERSITY),FID(DIABETICS UK)CCEPC(PALLIATIVE CARE),CCCC(CRITICAL CARE)

Visakhapatnam

Apollo Clinic Vizag, Visakhapatnam

500

75 Cashback

500

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

recommendation

89%

(125+ Patients)

1000

150 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Consult a Top haematologist for the best advice

Dr.sanchayan Mandal, Oncologist

Dr.sanchayan Mandal

Oncologist

17 Years • MBBS, DrNB( MEDICAL ONCOLOGY), DNB (RADIOTHERAPY),ECMO. PDCR. ASCO

Kolkata

Dr. Sanchayan Mandal Oncology Clinic, Kolkata

1500

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Sonal Paul, Haematologist

Dr. Sonal Paul

Haematologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD Pathology, DM Clinical Haematology

Kolkata

SATKRIT HEALTHCARE - A MULTISPECIALITY CLINIC, Kolkata

800

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr Abilash Jain, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Abilash Jain

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS,DNB(FM),MNAMS,FIAMS,CCGMG(GERIATRICS),DGM (GERIATRICS),PGCD(DIABETES,BOSTON UNIVERSITY),FID(DIABETICS UK)CCEPC(PALLIATIVE CARE),CCCC(CRITICAL CARE)

Visakhapatnam

Apollo Clinic Vizag, Visakhapatnam

500

75 Cashback

500

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

recommendation

89%

(125+ Patients)

1000

150 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Ramalinga Reddy, General Physician

Dr. Ramalinga Reddy

General Physician

5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Consult a Top haematologist for the best advice

Dr.sanchayan Mandal, Oncologist

Dr.sanchayan Mandal

Oncologist

17 Years • MBBS, DrNB( MEDICAL ONCOLOGY), DNB (RADIOTHERAPY),ECMO. PDCR. ASCO

Kolkata

Dr. Sanchayan Mandal Oncology Clinic, Kolkata

1500

1500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Sonal Paul, Haematologist

Dr. Sonal Paul

Haematologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD Pathology, DM Clinical Haematology

Kolkata

SATKRIT HEALTHCARE - A MULTISPECIALITY CLINIC, Kolkata

800

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr Abilash Jain, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Abilash Jain

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS,DNB(FM),MNAMS,FIAMS,CCGMG(GERIATRICS),DGM (GERIATRICS),PGCD(DIABETES,BOSTON UNIVERSITY),FID(DIABETICS UK)CCEPC(PALLIATIVE CARE),CCCC(CRITICAL CARE)

Visakhapatnam

Apollo Clinic Vizag, Visakhapatnam

500

75 Cashback

500

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

recommendation

89%

(125+ Patients)

1000

150 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Ramalinga Reddy, General Physician

Dr. Ramalinga Reddy

General Physician

5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

More articles from General Medical Consultation