Platelets

[Javier Matos]

I have a medical condition called Idiopatic Trombocytopenia Purpura (I.T.P.). This condition keeps my platelets count between 80,000- 40,000. The normal count is between 140,000 and 400,000. I am not taking medications at the moment. I want to know how dangerous is to freedive with a low platelets count. Thank you for helping.

Javier Matos Vázquez

 

[Klaas Feenstra]

Ask your Doctor

Dear Javier,

So as you likely know, platelets are needed to control bleeding. The choice if you are fit to dive or not to dive is dependend how fast your body can stop bleeding for one, and two, dependend of your medication, and how it reacts with (free)diving.

Personally, I would advice you to see a doctor, especially a diving medicine trained doctor, for the definitive answer to your question.

Sincerley yours,

'Houten' Klaas Feenstra

 

[Klaas Feenstra]

Javier,

I did a bit more research on your question. Spontaneous bleeding does not become evident until de count falls below 20.000. However your count is between 40.000 and 80.000 that is in the range that is associated with post-traumatic bleeding.
After doing some more searching at the World Wide Web, I found one page who does say something about ITP and Diving. According an info sheet at this address http://www.icondata.com/health/pedbase/files/IDIOPAT1.HTM patients with ITP should not dive. However, to know for certain, you will need to ask your treating doctor, he or she knows best what you can do in your medical situation.

Go to your doctor, that is the only advice that can be given.

Sincerely yours,

‘Houten’ Klaas Feenstra