Deciphering My Myeloma Lab Results - HealthTree For AML
Don't Miss These 3 Medical Blood Tests After 50
Regular blood tests like CBC, lipid panel, and TSH are essential for early detection of health issues, ensuring you can enjoy life to the fullest as you age.
As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, liver issues, and thyroid disorders. Blood tests are a vital tool in monitoring these risks, enabling early detection and management before conditions become severe. Regular blood tests can reveal subtle changes in your health, such as rising cholesterol levels or blood sugar irregularities, allowing for timely interventions. Early detection through these tests can significantly improve outcomes, reducing the risk of complications and enhancing overall quality of life. Regular monitoring is essential to maintaining good health and preventing the onset of serious illnesses as we age.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a fundamental blood test that plays a critical role in monitoring overall health, particularly as we age. This test provides a comprehensive overview of the various components of blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. Each of these components offers valuable insights into different aspects of your health.
Why It's Essential: The CBC is essential because it helps detect a range of conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed until they become more severe. For instance, a low red blood cell count could indicate anemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness if untreated. Abnormal white blood cell counts might suggest an infection, inflammation, or even more serious conditions like leukemia. Platelet levels, on the other hand, are crucial for blood clotting, and abnormalities can signal potential bleeding disorders or other issues.
Key Indicators: The test provides key indicators that help in diagnosing a variety of health conditions. For example, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are vital in assessing the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood, which is crucial for overall energy and function. White blood cell counts are critical in evaluating your immune system's response to infections. Platelet counts help assess your blood's ability to clot, which is important in preventing excessive bleeding.
Frequency: The frequency of CBC tests depends on individual health needs. For most adults over 50, it's recommended to have a CBC at least once a year as part of an annual physical exam. However, those with existing health conditions, or who are at higher risk for certain diseases, may need to have the test more frequently, as advised by their healthcare provider. Regular CBC tests allow for the early detection of potential health issues, enabling timely intervention and better management of health as you age.
Triglyceride panelA triglyceride panel is a critical blood test for monitoring heart health, especially as you age. This test measures various types of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood, helping to assess your risk of heart disease, which is a leading cause of death worldwide. Monitoring cholesterol levels becomes increasingly important after 50, as the risk of heart-related issues tends to rise with age.
Heart Health Monitoring: The lipid panel provides a comprehensive snapshot of your cardiovascular health by measuring key components of your blood lipids. Elevated levels of certain lipids, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, are strongly associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. On the other hand, high levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are considered protective, as HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from your bloodstream.
Breakdown of Cholesterol: The lipid panel typically includes measurements of LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. LDL, often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol, can build up in the walls of your arteries, leading to atherosclerosis-a condition that increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. HDL, known as 'good' cholesterol, helps transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver for excretion, reducing the risk of plaque buildup. Triglycerides, another component measured in the lipid panel, are a type of fat found in your blood. High levels of triglycerides, especially when combined with low HDL or high LDL, can further increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Guidelines: For most adults, it's recommended to have a lipid panel done every 4-6 years. However, if you have risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, or hypertension, more frequent testing may be necessary. A lipid panel will provide specific numbers, and your healthcare provider can interpret these results to determine if lifestyle changes, medications, or further interventions are needed to manage your heart health effectively. By regularly monitoring your lipid levels, you can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of heart disease and maintain a healthier life.
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) TestThyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is a critical hormone produced by the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain. TSH plays a vital role in regulating the function of the thyroid gland, which is responsible for producing hormones that control the body's metabolism. When TSH levels are released into the bloodstream, they stimulate the thyroid gland to produce two primary hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones help regulate energy levels, body temperature, and overall metabolic processes.
Importance of the TSH Test: The TSH test is a fundamental diagnostic tool used to assess thyroid function and detect disorders such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). By measuring the amount of TSH in the blood, healthcare providers can determine whether the thyroid gland is functioning properly. In cases of hypothyroidism, TSH levels are typically elevated as the body tries to stimulate an underperforming thyroid. Conversely, in hyperthyroidism, TSH levels are usually low because the thyroid is producing excess hormones without needing additional stimulation.
The Testing Process: The TSH test is a simple and routine procedure. A healthcare provider draws a small blood sample from a vein in your arm, usually at a lab or clinic. This sample is then sent to a laboratory, where the TSH level is measured. The test is quick, typically taking only a few minutes, and is highly effective in evaluating thyroid function.
As you age, particularly after 50, regular blood tests become essential for maintaining your health and well-being. These tests, such as the TSH test, CBC, and lipid panel, are vital tools for early detection of potential issues like thyroid disorders, anemia, and heart disease. By identifying problems early, you can take the necessary steps to manage or even prevent serious health conditions. Regular monitoring through these tests ensures that you and your healthcare provider can stay on top of your health, making adjustments as needed to keep you feeling your best.
Neglecting these crucial blood tests could mean missing the early signs of potentially serious conditions, which could lead to more significant health issues down the line. Therefore, it's important to take action and schedule these tests as part of your regular health routine.
To make the process convenient, consider using comprehensive testing services like those offered at GetLabTest.Com. They provide a range of blood test packages tailored to meet the needs of individuals over 50, ensuring you have easy access to the tests that matter most. Don't wait-schedule your blood tests today and take control of your health to enjoy a better quality of life as you age.
Source:Diagu LTD.Https://www.Diagu.Comhttps://www.Getlabtest.Comoffice@diagu.ComDisclaimer:This press release, and the information contained herein, is being provided by Diagu Ltd. It is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be relied upon for making investment or trading decisions. KISS PR, its employees, and its affiliates are not medical advisors. Readers are strongly advised to perform their own due diligence and consult with their professional financial, legal and medical advisors before making any decisions. For media inquiries or further information, please contact the Source Diagu Ltd at office@diagu.Com
It's Virgo Season! See 40 Celebrities You Didn't Know Were Virgo Signs
'Tis the season for Virgos!
Beginning on Aug. 22 and spanning through Sept. 22, Virgo season signals the astrological transition from summer to fall and marks a period of refinement and optimization.
Virgo marks the sixth sign of the zodiac, falling after Leo and before Libra. Throughout the duration of the season, there are various stages that will affect each zodiac sign differently.
According to astrologer Valerie Mesa, "This celestial season encourages you to get organized and streamline routines, as there is a greater emphasis on meticulous details." Furthermore, there will be opportunities to "be more flexible and adaptable in terms of productivity and day-to-day affairs."
As for Virgos in 2024, specifically, celebrity astrologer Kyle Thomas tells PEOPLE that the year "will make you feel like it's time for a change and to stand in your strength." The areas he predicts will be impacted the most include "true love and romance, creativity and passion, hobbies or sports, or even children."
Smart, sympathetic, humble and hardworking, perfectionist Virgos are analytical thinkers and ever-loyal friends — and not surprisingly, many (many!) stars were born under the Earth sign.
Read on to learn which celebrities are Virgos!
01 of 40
Sofia Richie Sofia Richie celebrates her birthday on Aug. 24 and is a Virgo through and through (and so is her sister Nicole). "I feel like it's a really L.A. Thing to say 'I'm a Virgo and I feel it,' but it really is a thing among Virgos," Richie told Harper's BAZAAR in 2023 while discussing her Sun sign. "In my family, my dad's a Gemini, my brother's a Gemini, my mom's a Gemini … and then my sister and I are Virgos, and we just connect on another level," she added of her older sister Nicole. "Our thought processes are the same."03 of 40
Dave Chappelle Lester Cohen/WireImage. Dave Chappelle's self-efficacy is part of his stand-up schtick, and he celebrates his birthday on Aug. 24. PEOPLE's resident astrologer Kyle Thomas points out that his "meticulous Virgo Sun" and "moody Cancer Moon" are what make him a rebel in his industry.04 of 40
Blake Lively Blake Lively. Gareth Cattermole/Getty Blake Lively, who celebrates her birthday on Aug. 25, has previously poked fun at her zodiac sign, calling herself a "notorious Virgo" in an ad for Betty Buzz. The ad made references to her ambitious and hardworking Earth sign characteristics while also calling out her slightly "obsessive" personality.05 of 40
Alexander Skarsgård Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images From True Blood to Big Little Lies, Alexander Skarsgård gives everything to his performances – and celebrates another trip around the sun on Aug. 25. In a conversation with Interview Magazine in May 2011, the actor revealed he was a Virgo, but noted that he didn't put too much weight on astrology. "I don't really believe in signs," he admitted.06 of 40
John Mulaney John Mulaney on SNL. Will Heath/NBC The John Mulaney's straightforward humor makes him very much a Virgo. The comedian celebrates his birthday on Aug. 26.07 of 40
Melissa McCarthy Melissa McCarthy. Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic From partnering with Meghan Markle to inspire female mentorship and taking to the streets of Los Angeles with a get-well sign for Mariska Hargitay, Melissa McCarthy, born Aug. 26, is always there for her friends. In fact, PEOPLE's resident astrology Kyle Thomas says 2024 is an exciting year for Virgos and their friendships. He predicts you'll have "many opportunities for improved expansion and growth," particularly on a "personal or intellectual level."08 of 40
Chris Pine Chris Pine. Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images In thoroughly Virgo behavior, Chris Pine — born on Aug. 26 — once teased that he was the "underdog" in the long-standing debate over the best Chris in Hollywood. Pine is also very aware of his zodiac sign and the personality traits that come with it. "I'm a Virgo. I'm not a planner. I'm a liar for a living," he joked on CBS Mornings in March 2023, adding that "planning and organizing" are not his "fortes" despite them aligning with the sign.09 of 40
Shania Twain Shania Twain. Samir Hussein/WireImage The Shania Twain's relatable ballads about love and life are music to Virgo's ears. The singer, who celebrates her birthday on Aug. 28, shared a hilarious video to TikTok in January 2023, exposing her Virgo traits. "I may be a little competitive.... 😂 Hey, I'm a Virgo, what do you expect?? 😂," she captioned a video of herself participating in an arcade game and swearing in frustration as she played.10 of 40
Jack Black Jack Black. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic Another comedian born beneath the Earth sign, Jack Black — born on Aug. 28 — is never afraid to crack a joke at his own expense. Astrologer Lisa Stardust told PEOPLE that Virgos have "a tendency to overanalyze situations in order to make the most precise and perfect decisions." Black, in fact, shared during his appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2003 that he aligns with his Virgo tendencies in those ways. "I'm kind of OCD with numbers and I like things to be perfectly numbers," he said on the show.11 of 40
Lea Michele Lea Michele. Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images Whether she's singing or acting, Lea Michele, born Aug. 29, always strives to hit the high notes. Plus, she's always staying busy with the next big project — a trait Stardust tells PEOPLE Virgos are known for, particularly their "dedication to hard work." In August 2023, Michele shared a fashion-forward photo of herself confidently strutting down the street. "Virgo Szn," she captioned the Instagram post.12 of 40
Cameron Diaz Cameron Diaz. Tibrina Hobson/Getty In honest Virgo fashion, Cameron Diaz — born on Aug. 30 — has spoken openly about stepping back from the spotlight to find peace. Virgos are known for being perfectionists and paying great attention to detail, two traits that have nonetheless made her the star she is today.13 of 40
Zendaya ABC via Getty Zendaya celebrates her birthday on Sept. 1. The Euphoria star opened up in an interview with W Magazine about her Virgo tendencies in March 2022. "As a Virgo, I hate not being in control of things, and spontaneity is difficult for me in real life," she said. "It's funny, because that's why I love acting so much. It's the one space in which I can feel safe being spontaneous, because I'm not myself; I'm someone else. There are no consequences."14 of 40
Gloria Estefan Gloria Estefan. Gregory Pace/Shutterstock Gloria Estefan was born on Sept. 1 and embodies her zodiac sign's drive and determination. During an interview with Forbes in February 2022, the multi-talented artist spoke about the ways in which she aligns with her zodiac sign. "I came to be of service, I'm a Virgo, very grounded, and that's my happy place, to be of service in any way possible... Kindness is the most important thing to me and what we can offer each other because we're all in this together," she said. "We're all sharing these experiences with whatever tools we came [into this life] with and whatever circumstances [we've had]."15 of 40
Padma Lakshmi Dimitrios Kambouris/amfAR/WireImage, The former Top Chef host, who was born on Sept 1, always pushed contestants to get their recipes just right, a big characteristic of her zodiac sign. In January 2020, Padma Lakshmi celebrated her birthday in a confident way by posting a bikini pic to X (formerly Twitter) and writing, "Feelin' fine at 49." In the thread of comments, she adds, "I'm a Virgo 😉 hehe. Just feeling good!"16 of 40
Salma Hayek Salma Hayek. Todd Williamson/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Salma Hayek celebrates her birthday on Sept. 2. "I'm a Virgo. Supposedly if you're a Virgo, you are the ultimate perfectionist," she previously said in an interview with W Magazine. "Also you're super organized and neat," she continued. "I am the ultimate perfectionist. I am not very organized or neat in real life, but I'm super organized in my head."17 of 40
Keanu Reeves J Hogan/Getty A versatile actor known for his kind deeds off screen, Keanu Reeve was born Sept. 2. As the star of The Matrix series and the John Wick franchise, and someone who performs his own stunts, there's no denying that Reeves aligns with Virgo's "attention to detail" and "hardworking" traits.18 of 40
Beyoncé Ian West/PA Images via Getty Images Ahead of her 40th birthday on Sept. 4, 2021, Beyoncé shouted out dozens of celebrity Virgos, sharing throwback photos of them in an official Virgo Yearbook on her website. Prince Harry and BTS' Jungkook made the cut, and the late Kobe Bryant was honored as MVP. "Wishing all Virgos a Happy Birthday!" she signed a message.19 of 40
Idris Elba Emma McIntyre/Getty Suave and steady, the former PEOPLE's Sexiest Man Alive was born on Sept. 6. PEOPLE's resident astrologer Kyle Thomas analyzed the actor's birth chart and noted the traits that align with his zodiac sign. "When looking at his elemental energy, he is very equally balanced between Earth, Fire and Air," Thomas wrote of Idris Elba on his website. "This shows that he can move mountains with his passion and persistence and his communication abilities are quite potent."20 of 40
Pink Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic Pink, born on Sept. 8, is open about her family life and never shies away from sticking up for her beliefs. Kyle Thomas analyzed Pink's birth chart and pointed out that she's "very significantly composed of Earth followed by Fire." "This is what brings her so much strength, vitality and persistence to get what she wants," he added of the singer. "She's got the stamina to go the long haul and the creativity and passion to fuel her from within."21 of 40
Adam Sandler Adam Sandler. GP Images/Getty Adam Sandler, born on Sept. 9, has amused America since getting his start on Saturday Night Live. Sandler is famously quoted to this day for his zodiac-centric line in The Waterboy from 1998. "I don't like confrontation 'cause I'm a Virgo," he says in the film.22 of 40
Michelle Williams George Pimentel/WireImage Poised and polished, Michelle Williams shines on both the stage and silver screen, celebrating her birthday Sept. 9. In a January 2023 interview with the New York Times, Williams self-admitted to one specific Virgo trait she aligns with. In response to the interviewer telling the actress that she's "really organized," Williams responded, "I'm a Virgo."23 of 40
Michael Bublé Richard Dobson/Newspix via Getty Images Michael Bublé's music about heartache, heartbreak and finding true love has long struck a chord with fans. Born on Sept. 9, Bublé had some fun in celebration of his zodiac season in the past. "My wife gave me TikTok for my birthday — tell me what I'm supposed to do with this? #virgoseason "BubléTok," he captioned a funny video from 2021.24 of 40
Colin Firth David M. Benett/Dave Benett/WireImage Colin Firt, born on Sept. 10, has drawn viewers in since his breakout role as Mr. Darcy in 1995's Pride and Prejudice — a classically charismatic Virgo. Plus, a hard-working one too!25 of 40
Taraji P. Henson Taraji P. Henson. Kevin Mazur/Getty Images Taraji P. Henson brings the heat to every role she plays and once joked about the serious side of her Virgo personality in a 2019 Instagram post. "#Virgo I will literally ignore your VERY EXISTENCE 😂😂😂😒," she joked in the caption, reposting a meme on how to determine if certain astrological signs don't like you. The star was born on Sept. 11.26 of 40
Ludacris John Parra/Getty Ludacris, born on Sept. 11, once collaborated with fellow Virgo! Nas on a 2004 track named after their shared star sign. "Won't you come and just chill with the Virgo?/ We sippin' on Merlot, you ain't got be my girl, though," they rapped in part.27 of 40
Harry Connick Jr. Bruce Glikas/WireImage Harry Connick Jr. Channels his creativity into many mediums, and celebrates his birthday on Sept. 11. The multi-talented musician and actor aligns with his Virgo traits of perfection and a strong work ethic given his numerous successes throughout his remarkable career.28 of 40
Jennifer Hudson Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Jennifer Hudson, born on Sept. 12, was seemingly destined to star in Dream Girls, pointing out that she and her closest costars shared the same astrological sign. "Fun fact .... Did u know that all the #dreams-girls are All Virgos ! Beyonce sept 4th , #anikanonirose sept 6th and me Jhud sept 12th ! Happy bday month to my dream girl Virgo sisters !" she shared on X in 2018.29 of 40
Emmy Rossum Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images Emmy Rossum, born on Sept. 12, brings her Virgo versatility to every role. She's also a hard worker, not just as an actress but as a mom, too!30 of 40
Lili Reinhart Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images Lili Reinhart sparkles on screen and celebrates another trip around the sun on Sept. 13. "I'm such a big Virgo," she told W Magazine in October 2022. "I'm a perfectionist, I'm very critical and I like to be the leader."31 of 40
Tyler Perry Chris Pizzello/Pool/Getty Tyler Perry was born on Sept. 13 and won the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the 2021 Oscars. Speaking from his (Virgo) heart in his acceptance speech, he explained, "You know, when I set out to help someone, it is my intention to do just that. I'm not trying to do anything other than meet somebody at their humanity."32 of 40
Nas Mike Coppola/Getty Images Is there any better way to celebrate your star sign than by rapping about it on a record? Nas, born on Sept. 14, teamed up with fellow Virgo rapper Ludacris for just that.33 of 40
Nick Jonas Matt Winkelmeyer/FilmMagic Nick Jonas was born on Sept. 16. "Nick's very serious Virgo stellium in the Second House means he takes his responsibilities extremely seriously, so that gives him +5 years," celebrity astrologer Aliza Kelly told PEOPLE in May 2022. His Jupiter is also in Virgo, with Kelly explaining Jonas just went through his Jupiter opposition with transiting Jupiter and Pisces. "The energy around that Virgo-Pisces access is very much about parenthood," she added, noting that their daughter is a top priority for the singer.34 of 40
Amy Poehler Todd Williamson/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images Amy Poehler, born on Sept. 16, lights up both the small and silver screens with a very Virgo flair. Astrologer Chani Nicholas analyzed Poehler's birth chart for Netflix, breaking down her Virgo traits in March 2021. "I love a system," the actress said in response to Nicholas explaining the sign's desire to "make sense of life" and find a system that helps to get work done "efficiently and effectively."35 of 40
Jada Pinkett Smith Pietro S. D'Aprano/Getty Creative, open and caring, Jada Pinkett Smith's empathetic nature makes her an ideal co-host for Red Table Talk. She celebrates her birthday on Sept. 18. With her Virgo Sun in the tenth house, Kyle Thomas writes on his site that "Jada lives a very public life in the spotlight." He explains, "The tenth house is typically associated with career and purpose."36 of 40
Jimmy Fallon Andrew Lipovsky/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Very funny! Jimmy Fallon, born on Sept. 19, knows how to bring out the best in his guest on his late-night show. The late night host had some fun on his show when guests Rhett & Link predicted his Chipotle order based on his zodiac sign! (Spoiler: It's a spice chicken burrito with white rice, black beans and no sour cream!)37 of 40
Nicole Richie David Crotty/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images Nicole Richie, born on Sept. 21, regrets a wrist tattoo inspired by her astrological sign that she got years ago. "See this tattoo? It says 'virgin,' you guys. It's embarrassing and desperate," she told E! News in 2014. "Now, I am a Virgo so when I was 16 I thought, 'Ooh I'm going to be different and I'm going to put virgin, because the virgin is the sign for Virgo.' " Looking back on what she'd do differently if she had the ink changed, Richie said, "I'd add an i and an a and say I'm from Virginia, but I just don't think people are going to believe me. So I'm just stuck."38 of 40
Jason Derulo Jason Derulo. Mike Marsland/WireImage Jason Derulo, born on Sept. 21, goes all-out every time he steps on stage — or appears on TikTok! The entertainer showed pride in his zodiac sign in celebration of his 30th birthday in 2019. "VIRGO season. We goin up this month... I'm bout to be 30... #backtobackshows #virgo #Dirty30" he wrote on X (formerly Twitter) at the time.39 of 40
Stephen King Stephen King. Slaven Vlasic/Getty Chiming in on a 2019 X thread on what to read based on your star sign, Stephen King joked, "I'm a Virgo. Sorry about that." King was born on Sept. 21.40 of 40
Bill Murray Ezra Shaw/Getty Lighthearted and likable, Bill Murray has a birthday on Sept. 21. The actor's straightforward humor and hardworking character certainly align with his Virgo sign!TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH: How To Recognize Normal Versus High Blood Pressure
DEAR DR. ROACH: I have been confused about what normal blood pressure is for me (or anyone). I know there are some issues on what normal is today, but let us say that normal is 120/80 mm Hg. Does this mean that 110/90 mm Hg, 130/70 mm Hg, or 150/50 mm Hg is also normal? Is there any significance of the ratio of systolic/diastolic blood pressure? — L.P.
ANSWER: Because so many people have high blood pressure, and the consequences of untreated or poorly treated high blood pressure include a risk for heart attack and stroke, it's critically important to understand this thoroughly.
For a young, healthy person, the lower the blood pressure, the lower the risk of blood vessel damage that leads to these dreaded complications of heart attack and stroke. I routinely see people with blood pressures of 90/60 mm Hg who are just fine (although they are a bit more likely to faint).
But for middle-aged and older people, we define normal blood pressure as when the systolic (first or top number) pressure is less than 120 mm Hg and the diastolic (the second or bottom number) is less than 80 mm Hg. Elevated blood pressure is when the systolic pressure is between 120-129 mm Hg and the diastolic pressure is less than 80 mm Hg. It's considered hypertension when the systolic number is 130 mm Hg or greater, or the diastolic number is 80 mm Hg or greater. So, all of the readings you proposed are hypertension, not just elevated blood pressure.
Of course, the higher the reading (in general), the higher the risk of damage to the blood vessels, and after some years, the higher the risk of heart attack or stroke. It's not the ratio of the systolic and diastolic numbers that is of interest; it's the difference between them (also called the pulse pressure). So, with the numbers you gave, the pulse pressures are 20, 60 and 100. Independent of blood pressure levels, a higher pulse pressure confers additional risk to the person, mostly because very stiff blood vessels cause a high pulse pressure. Different types of blood pressure medicines affect pulse pressure differently.
DEAR DR. ROACH: Is a platelet count of 135,000 low or in the normal range for a 76-year-old male in good health with no signs of abnormal bruising or bleeding? — P.R.
ANSWER: The normal range for a platelet count is 150,000-450,000 per microliter, so 135,000 is just below the lower limit of normal. However, it's quite rare to have abnormal bleeding with a platelet count like this, even under stress like a surgical procedure. About 2.5% of the healthy population will have a platelet count below 150,000, so a level of 135,000 may not represent disease at all. Typically, the risk of spontaneous major bleeding becomes high when platelet levels drop below 30,000.
The most common cause of low platelets in older adults is an immune-mediated condition called "immune thrombocytopenia," but there are many possible causes, including medications, bone marrow diseases, and liver disease. For a 76-year-old, if repeat blood counts show that the platelet count is stable in the 100,000 range, most experts would not do further testing in absence of any symptoms.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.Cornell.Edu or send mail to 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803.
Comments
Post a Comment