Is a platelet count of 15,000 too low?
Yes, a platelet count of 15,000 is significantly low. A healthy platelet count ranges between 150,000 and 400,000 platelets per microliter of blood. When platelet counts drop below 140,000, it's diagnosed as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).
At 15,000, you're at serious risk for Show Full Answer
Is a platelet count of 15,000 too low?
Yes, a platelet count of 15,000 is significantly low. A healthy platelet count ranges between 150,000 and 400,000 platelets per microliter of blood. When platelet counts drop below 140,000, it's diagnosed as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).
At 15,000, you're at serious risk for bleeding complications. Without enough platelets, your blood can't clot properly, which leads to easy bleeding and bruising.
You may experience:
* Frequent nosebleeds
* Bleeding gums
* Easy bruising
* Bleeding more than usual from small cuts
* Petechiae (tiny red dots under the skin)
* Heavy menstrual periods
With extremely low platelet levels like yours, there's a risk for serious bleeding problems. If you experience bleeding that won't stop, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Your doctor can order a platelet transfusion to help bring your counts up. This is a common treatment for low platelets in people with leukemia. Contact your healthcare team right away to discuss your platelet count and treatment options.
February 23