The Healthy Way

Monday, May 18, 2009

Proper testing required for low platelets

Q: Hi Dr. Elena: I'm a healthy 61 year old. I do not take any medications, only vitamins and supplements. I have normal blood pressure and cholesterol and I am not diabetic. For the last three years my annual blood test is showing my platelets are decreasing with time. 110 was the last level. Could it be that I'm taking too many omegas? I take 1000mg of Flaxeed oil, and 1000mg of Evening Primrose oil.

A: A low platelet count (called thrombocytopenia) refers to an abnormally low number of platelets, the particles in blood that help with clotting. As a result, blood does not clot normally.

The platelet count may decrease if the bone marrow does not produce enough platelets. There may be many causes for it including some serious ones, so you should have your doctor investigate it.

There can be many causes. It is either platelet production problems centered in the bone marrow or platelet destruction problems centered in the liver or spleen. Some low platelet conditions are characterized by both a low rate of production and a high rate of platelet destruction.

I don't think it is serious or your doctor would have picked it up. You are having regular check ups and are in good health otherwise.

I would stop taking all oil supplements for two months and re-check your blood. If you still have a problem, you should look into getting heavy metal testing. Heavy metals can settle in the bone marrow and affect blood production including platelets. Arsenic and mercury are both abundant in our environment and can cause problems. The are easy to treat for if found.

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online here