What does low platelets and high hemoglobin mean?

What does it mean if your platelets are low?

• I had a visit with my Doc yesterday to go over some blood work and a urine sample. He said that everything was normal, then paused *made a frowny face* and said, "Hmm? Your platelets are low. We'll have to keep an eye on that." I see him again in 3 months.... I was just curious as to what this (low platelets) could mean? Thanks for your help!

• Answer:

  Platelets (thrombocytes) are cell fragments that, together with fiber-like blood proteins, make blood coagulate and form scabs. If platelets are low, there's an increased risk for prolonged bleeding and easy bruising. The term for low platelets is thrombocytopenia. There are a number of conditions (including pregnancy) that can cause thrombocytopenia. If your doctor wishes to monitor yours, I'd say it must be mild. In 3 months, your doctor will order another CBC to measure your platelet count. He'll decide at that time if you require further testing. Try to not worry in the meantime and avoid bumping into things.