How to lower platelets

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small blood cells that play a crucial role in blood clotting. They help stop bleeding by forming clots when there is an injury or damage to a blood vessel. However, an abnormal increase in platelet count, known as thrombocytosis, can lead to serious health risks. In this article, we will discuss the causes of high platelet count and explore different ways to lower platelets.

Causes of High Platelet Count:
1. Essential Thrombocythemia: This is a rare bone marrow disorder where the body produces too many platelets even when they are not needed.
2. Infections: Certain viral or bacterial infections, such as hepatitis, tuberculosis, or HIV, can trigger the body to produce more platelets.
3. Inflammatory or Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can cause platelet counts to rise.
4. Iron Deficiency: Anemia or iron deficiency can cause the body to overproduce platelets to compensate for the lack of red blood cells.
5. Cancer: Certain types of cancer, such as lung or ovarian cancer, can cause an increase in platelet count.

Now, let’s discuss some ways to lower platelets:

1. Consult a Medical Professional:
If you suspect or have been diagnosed with a high platelet count, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. They will run tests to determine the underlying cause and establish a proper treatment plan accordingly.

2. Medications:
Often, the first-line treatment for lowering platelet count includes medications such as aspirin or clopidogrel. These drugs help prevent platelets from clumping together and forming clots. However, their usage and dosage should be determined by a healthcare professional.

3. Lifestyle Modifications:
Certain lifestyle changes can contribute to managing high platelet count effectively. These include:
a. Maintaining a Healthy Diet: Incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet can help regulate platelet production.
b. Exercising Regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve blood circulation and promote overall cardiovascular health.
c. Staying Hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water can help prevent blood from thickening and forming clots.
d. Managing Stress: High-stress levels can lead to an increase in platelet count. Engaging in relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can be beneficial.

4. Herbal Remedies:
Some natural herbs and supplements have shown potential in lowering platelet count. These include:
a. Garlic: Contains compounds that inhibit platelet aggregation.
b. Ginger: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce platelet count.
c. Fish Oil: Contains omega-3 fatty acids that have mild antiplatelet effects.
d. Green Tea: Contains catechins that may help prevent excessive platelet aggregation.

It is important to note that herbal remedies should not replace prescribed medications, and their usage should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

5. Medical Procedures:
In certain cases, if the platelet count remains significantly high despite other interventions, medical procedures may be considered. These include plateletpheresis, a process that removes excess platelets from the bloodstream, or bone marrow aspiration to assess the bone marrow’s health and functionality.

In conclusion, managing high platelet count requires understanding the underlying causes and seeking appropriate medical advice. Through a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and potentially herbal remedies, it is possible to lower platelet count and reduce the associated health risks. However, it is crucial to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop the most suitable treatment plan for individual requirements.