HomeAnswersHematologyhigh rbc countWhy does my blood report show an increase in platelets and RBCs?

What are the causes of an increase in platelet and RBC count in the body?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At May 19, 2022
Reviewed AtAugust 2, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am attaching my blood report. I have noticed an increase in platelets and RBCs. What does it mean?

Kindly guide.

Answered by Dr. Prakash. H. M.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen your reports (attachments removed to protect patient's identity). Based on the reports,

1. The hemoglobin is within the normal range. Compared to previous reports, the RBC count and platelets appear to have increased.

2. The RBC's (red blood cells) are smaller in size and increased in number. Smaller RBCs could be due to an early iron deficiency anemia. I suggest you use iron supplements. The increased number is a compensation to improve hemoglobin. Once the MCV (mean corpuscular hemoglobin) increases with iron therapy, the RBC count will reduce.

3. The platelet count is also slightly elevated. Is there any normal bleeding in the menstrual cycle? Is there gastritis? Even mild bleeding can cause an inverse increase in platelets. Also, a platelet count up to 4.5 lakhs is normal. If there is no bleeding, look for tar colored stools or blood in stools.

I suggest to repeat the tests after three months and take an iron and vitamin C rich diet and supplements if necessary.

I hope this helps. Do revert in case of further queries.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your response.

The reports are for my 40-year-old husband and not a female, as the query shows. He has not noticed any blood in the stool. We have repeated the tests for my husband today as we were worried about the platelets. Could you explain how anemia occurs when the hemoglobin levels are normal? Also, could you prescribe any iron supplements? How long do they need to be used if prescribed? Is there any need to use blood thinners?

Kindly advise.

Answered by Dr. Prakash. H. M.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have seen the reports.

As the platelet count is normal, there is nothing to worry about bleeding. Also, a platelet counts up to 6 lakhs is considered acceptable. However, in times of stress or infections, platelet count may vary. Also, microcytic hypochromic anemia is due to iron deficiency. I suggest your husband take iron supplements containing Ferrous Fumarate and Vitamin C and avoid taking coffee or tea with food or supplements as it inhibits iron absorption. Iron-rich foods like finger millet, green leafy vegetables, chicken, beef, fish, etc., can be taken. Vitamin C or citrus-rich foods help improve iron absorption. As there is no history of stroke or heart attack, blood thinners are not essential at this age.

I hope it helps.

Do revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Prakash. H. M.
Dr. Prakash. H. M.

Hematology

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