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The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine has been linked to a very rare blood-clotting disorder called 'thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome’ (TTS). You can read about it here. If you're experiencing any symptoms following a COVID-19 vaccination, you can use the COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effect Checker. Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which the platelets (also called thrombocytes) are low in number, which can result in bleeding problems. Platelets are a type of blood cell that are important for helping blood to clot. When you cut yourself and the wound bleeds, platelets clump together at the site of the wound to stop the bleeding. Platelets may be low in number if the body is not making enough of them, if they are being destroyed, or if they are being trapped in the spleen. The spleen is an organ that acts as a filter of the blood and sits in the abdomen, under the ribs on the left. Thrombocytopenia is more common in children than adults, but it is still very rare. In children it usually goes away by itself. In many adults it does not get better but it usually does not need any treatment. What are the symptoms of thrombocytopenia?The symptoms of thrombocytopenia are:
In rare cases, dangerous internal bleeding may occur. If you are worried that you or your child has thrombocytopenia, visit your doctor. For bleeding that won’t stop, go to your local emergency department or call triple zero (000). What causes thrombocytopenia?Thrombocytopaenia may be due to:
There are different types of thrombocytopenia:
How is thrombocytopenia diagnosed?Your doctor will examine you and order blood tests. If you have thrombocytopenia, blood tests show a low platelet count. You may have other tests to investigate the cause of the thrombocytopenia, and your doctor may refer you to a specialist. How is thrombocytopenia treated?Depending on the cause and severity of the thrombocytopenia, treatments may include:
In more severe cases, you may need:
You may also have to: During treatment, you will need regular blood tests and reviews with your doctor. Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content. Last reviewed: August 2021 These trusted information partners have more on this topic.
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