There is no answer as to what causes the immune system to mount an attack on platelets and unfortunately, there is no method we know that can definitively prevent the onset of ITP. There are, however, several signs and symptoms that may indicate ITP and when directly defined, may assist in early detection. Possible early indicators of ITP are listed below along with several tips for living a healthy lifestyle in an effort to assist with prevention. There are many treatments for ITP and some people go into remission, but there is no cure for ITP. With increased awareness, education, and research there remains hope.

For more detailed information and explanations visit:
• About ITP
• Living with ITP (.pdf)

 

EARLY DETECTION

Understand Normal Platelet Counts and Potential Causes of Low Platelets
1. Test your platelet count with an annual complete blood count (CBC)
2. See a hematologist if the results show a platelet count below 100,000
- A normal platelet count is 150,000 – 400,000
- Together with your hematologist, determine if your low platelet count may be caused by a new drug you have taken, an infection, an exposure to toxins, or something you ate. For more information visit: About ITP: Warnings
- Familiarize yourself with drugs known to lower platelet counts. See the Cleveland Clinic list of drugs known to cause platelet dysfunction: Cleveland Clinic

Know the Possible Signs and Symptoms of Low Platelets
Signs (things you see)
1. Petechiae – small, reddish-purple spots that look like a rash, but are not raised
2. Bruising or Purpura - dark red or purple bruises caused by bleeding underneath the skin with no known cause
3. Be aware of any bleeding that may be unusual, heavier or last longer than normal
- Heavy menses in women
- Frequent, heavy, or persistent nosebleeds
- Bleeding inside the mouth from the cheeks (blood blisters) or from the gums with no known cause
- Blood in urine or stool

Symptoms (things you feel)
1. Fatigue
2. Depression

Know Your AQ (Autoimmune Quotient) The AQ consists of several simple points that all individuals should know and record about their own health in order to receive an accurate diagnosis:
1. Know your family medical history and give a copy to your doctor
2. Keep a detailed list of your symptoms and when you have them (many symptoms come and go, are non-consistent, or happen infrequently in autoimmune diseases)
3. Get the opinions of more than 1 doctor if you feel your health concerns are not being addressed
4. Educate yourself
5. For more information about determining your AQ, visit: AARDA

PREVENTION

Maintain a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle
1. See PDSA’s Diet and Lifestyle suggestions
2. Maintain a healthy digestive system by eating mostly fruits and vegetables and chewing them well - Autoimmune Illness Natural Tratments
3. Maintain healthy levels of both Folic Acid and Vitamin D, which can strengthen the immune system in an attempt to prevent serious infections - a known cause of low platelets. See page 32 in the PDSA booklet “Living with ITP: Answers to Common Questions” for studies on Folic Acid. Contact PDSA to request a copy. Information about the benefits of Vitamin D can be found here: Mayo Clinic
4. Make an effort to reduce stress level - LiveStrong.com. Stress reducing activities include:
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Relaxation techniques
5. Avoid environmental toxins - Article by Dr. Mark Hyman
6. Understand the potential effects of environmental triggers - AARDA Web site