Platelet Count near me in Visakhapatnam
Understanding Platelet Count in Visakhapatnam
What is Platelet Count in Visakhapatnam?
The Platelet Count test, often done as a part of a complete blood count test, measures the number of platelets in the blood and is available at an affordable price in Visakhapatnam with Tata 1mg labs. Platelets are tiny blood cells essential for blood clotting and wound healing. Abnormal platelet counts can indicate bleeding disorders, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), or thrombocytosis (high platelet count)
The Platelet Count test may be recommended if you have symptoms such as easy or excessive bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, or spontaneous bleeding from the gums or nose, which may suggest a platelet disorder. Also, this test is generally included as part of a routine health check-up or to monitor the progress of treatment in individuals with known platelet disorders or conditions that can affect platelet counts, such as leukemia or chemotherapy treatment. No special preparation is required for this test.
What does Platelet Count measure?
The Platelet Count test measures the average number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are disk-shaped tiny cells originating from large cells known as megakaryocytes, which are found in the bone marrow. After the platelets are formed, they are released into the blood circulation. Their average life span is 7-10 days.
Platelets help stop the bleeding, whenever there is an injury or trauma to a tissue or blood vessel, by adhering and accumulating at the injury site and releasing chemical compounds that stimulate the gathering of more platelets. A loose platelet plug is formed at the site of injury and this process is known as primary hemostasis. These activated platelets support the coagulation pathway that involves a series of steps, including the sequential activation of clotting factors; this process is known as secondary hemostasis. After this step, there is a formation of fibrin strands that form a mesh incorporated into and around the platelet plug. This mesh strengthens and stabilizes the blood clot so that it remains in place until the injury heals. After healing, other factors come into play and break the clot down so that it gets removed. In case the platelets are not sufficient in number or not functioning properly, a stable clot might not form. These unstable clots can result in an increased risk of excessive bleeding.