What is Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia means that you have a low number of platelets in your blood. Platelets are tiny cells in the blood.

When you bleed, they clump together at the cut or injury to stop the bleeding. This is called blood clotting. Not having enough platelets can cause bleeding problems.

Follow these instructions at home:

General instructions

• Check your skin and inside your mouth for bruises or blood as told by your doctor.
• Check to see if there is blood in your spit (sputum), pee (urine), and poop (stool). Do this as told by your doctor.
• Ask your doctor if you can drink alcohol.
• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
• Tell all of your doctors that you have this condition. Be sure to tell your dentist and eye doctor too.

Activity

• Do not do activities that can cause bumps or bruises until your doctor says it is okay.
• Be careful not to cut yourself:
  • When you shave.
  • When you use scissors, needles, knives, or other tools.
• Be careful not to burn yourself:
  • When you use an iron.
  • When you cook.

Contact a doctor if:

• You have bruises and you do not know why.

Get help right away if:

• You are bleeding anywhere on your body.
• You have blood in your spit, pee, or poop.