Why Platelets Increase in Iron Deficiency Anemia

People commonly assume that anemia is linked to low blood volume or blood loss. However, anemia occurs when there are too few red blood cells or low hemoglobin in the blood, leading to reduced oxygen delivery. While this can be caused by blood loss, chronic illness, a lack of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, iron deficiency is another common cause.

Many people would be surprised learning that platelets increase in iron deficiency anemia. Platelets are tiny cells in your blood that help stop bleeding by forming clots when you get a cut or injury. While this phenomenon may seem contradictory at first, it has an easy explanation, which will be discussed in this article. By reading, you will learn about iron deficiency anemia, why platelets are elevated in iron deficiency anemia and how to treat this condition successfully.

What is Iron Deficiency Anemia?

Medical professionals speak of iron deficiency anemia when the body lacks iron to produce enough hemoglobin, caused by factors such as poor diet, blood loss, pregnancy, or trouble absorbing iron. Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that is responsible for carrying oxygen and distributing it into various parts of the body to ensure they function correctly. When the body produces fewer and weaker red blood cells, the remaining red blood cells can’t adequately fulfill their responsibility, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness. A faster heart rate and breathing can occur since the body tries to compensate for its lack of oxygen. Over time, pale skin, brittle nails, or unusual cravings for inedible iron-rich items like ice and clay may also develop.

Why Do Platelets Increase in Iron Deficiency Anemia?

The main components of blood are made in the bone marrow, including red and white blood cells, as well as platelets. When the production of sufficient red blood cells is hindered, the bone marrow is believed to produce more platelets instead. Additionally, the hormone stimulating platelet production, thrombopoietin, may become elevated as the body tries to compensate for its lack of red blood cells and hemoglobin. The resulting elevated platelet count is therefore considered to be secondary, and not due to other, potentially serious diseases, such as leukemia.

Treatment Methods for Iron Deficiency Anemia

While the elevated platelet levels aren’t harmful in themselves, iron deficiency anemia prevents the body from functioning correctly and, therefore, requires treatment. Treatment methods may vary depending on the underlying reason for the iron deficiency and the severity of the condition. For example, when chronic blood loss due to heavy periods or ulcers are involved, the underlying issues need to be addressed accordingly.

One of the most common methods to treat iron deficiency anemia are oral iron supplements such as Feriva 21/7. Although iron supplements are often effective, they may be inefficient in more severe cases. Sometimes, your doctor may choose intravenous iron for quicker results or, when severe symptoms are present, opt to give you a blood transfusion until a more permanent solution is found.

Additionally, dietary changes should not be underestimated in the recovery process, especially when used in combination with the treatments mentioned above. This may include eating foods rich in iron, like red meat, leafy greens, lentils, and fortified cereals. Don’t combine calcium-rich foods, tea or coffee with iron supplements, as this may hinder absorption. Finally, regular monitoring of your iron levels through blood tests is crucial to catch iron deficiency anemia early or ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.