Platelets are a vital part of your blood. They are the small cells that form clots to help stop bleeding.

When you get a cut, your blood vessels send out a message to your platelets. The platelets then bind together to create a clot and prevent further blood loss.

You might have recently received your results from a platelet or PLT blood test. So just how many platelets should be traveling through your bloodstream?

Average Platelet Count

Because platelets only live in the body for about 10 days, your bone marrow creates millions of platelets each day. A normal platelet count is between 150,000 to 450,000 per microliter of blood. 

For women, the average platelet count is between 157,000 to 371,000 per microliter of blood. For men, the average is between 135,000 to 317,000 per microliter of blood.

Platelets are always in high demand. If you have a healthy platelet count, please consider donating them.

Abnormal Platelet Count

A platelet count, also called a platelet blood test, that is not normal can be a sign of an underlying health condition or a side effect of medication. 

A count higher than 450,000 per microliter of blood is known as thrombocytosis. These extra platelets can cause unnecessary clotting or even bleeding. 

A count lower than 150,000 per microliter of blood is known as thrombocytopenia. Anything lower than 20,000 is considered severe thrombocytopenia.

Some signs of a low platelet count include bruising easily and inordinate bleeding from a small cut. When your platelet count gets too low, it can cause dangerous internal bleeding. Learn more about what causes a low platelet count on our blog.

Determining Platelet Count

You can find out your platelet count by doing a routine platelet blood test called a complete blood count, or CBC. 

It is often part of your general health exam, or can be ordered by your doctor if they suspect your platelet levels are abnormal. Your doctor will then recommend the best treatment plan for you.

The Power of Platelet Donations

Platelets hold a unique power to save lives! Platelet donations help cancer patients due to the harsh effects of chemotherapy. They also help trauma and cardiac patients when they need it most. 

People with A+, B+, AB-, AB+, and O+ blood types should consider donating platelets. You can donate platelets every 7 days and up to 24 times a year. 

Schedule your platelet donation appointment with OneBlood today!