Platelet Count

Why are Platelets important for your Healthspan?

‍Platelet levels are essential for maintaining proper blood clotting and vascular health. An adequate number of functional platelets ensures that your body can effectively stop bleeding from injuries, while also preventing the formation of inappropriate blood clots within vessels. Imbalances, whether too high or too low, can increase the risk of significant bleeding or dangerous clot formation, both of which can lead to serious health events and impact long-term vitality and resilience.

‍What are Platelets?

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are tiny, irregularly shaped cell fragments that circulate in the blood. They are not full cells but are pieces broken off from larger cells called megakaryocytes, which reside in the bone marrow. The primary function of platelets is to play a central role in hemostasis, the body's natural process of stopping bleeding. When a blood vessel is damaged, platelets quickly travel to the site of injury, stick to the damaged lining, and then clump together to form a temporary plug. They also release various chemicals that signal other platelets and clotting factors, initiating a cascade that leads to the formation of a stable blood clot to seal the wound.

‍How do we take action?

If platelet levels are found to be outside the typical range, one should consult with a healthcare provider to investigate the underlying cause. Elevated platelet counts (thrombocytosis) can be a response to inflammation, infection, or iron deficiency, or sometimes indicate a bone marrow disorder, potentially increasing clot risk. Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can increase bleeding risk and might stem from viral infections, autoimmune conditions, certain medications, or bone marrow issues. Strategies involve addressing the diagnosed underlying condition. For high levels, this might include managing inflammation or iron deficiency. For low levels, treatment of the underlying cause or specific medical interventions may be necessary. Regular monitoring helps ensure proper clotting function and supports overall Healthspan.

‍Additional Sources

1. Ghoshal, K., & Bhattacharyya, M. (2014). Overview of platelet physiology: its hemostatic and nonhemostatic role in disease pathogenesis. TheScientificWorldJournal, 2014, 781857. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/781857

2. Hou, Y., Carrim, N., Wang, Y., Gallant, R. C., Marshall, A., & Ni, H. (2015). Platelets in hemostasis and thrombosis: Novel mechanisms of fibrinogen-independent platelet aggregation and fibronectin-mediated protein wave of hemostasis. Journal of biomedical research, 29(6), 437–444. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.7555/JBR.29.20150121

3. Michelson A. D. (2003). How platelets work: platelet function and dysfunction. Journal of thrombosis and thrombolysis, 16(1-2), 7–12. https://doi.org/10.1023/B:THRO.0000014586.77684.82

4. Ali, R. A., Wuescher, L. M., & Worth, R. G. (2015). Platelets: essential components of the immune system. Current trends in immunology, 16, 65–78.

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