Detecting ITP’s early warning symptoms
Last updated July 21, 2025, by Lisa Basile
Fact-checked by PatrÃcia Silva, PhD
If you’ve noticed unexplained bruises, tiny red spots on your skin, frequent nosebleeds, or fatigue, these could be warning signs of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) — a condition marked by low platelet counts.
Whether you have an ITP diagnosis or are just learning about ITP, understanding what these early symptoms mean can help you take control of your health.
Why early detection matters in ITP
ITP is a disorder marked by lower platelet counts. Platelets are small blood cell fragments that help form plugs (or blood clots) when you get injured. With fewer platelets, you may bleed more easily.
Many people may not even realize they have ITP, but getting a routine complete blood count (CBC) test can help clue your doctor into any changes (increases or reductions) in your platelet count. ITP is diagnosed when you have fewer than 100,000 platelets per microliter of blood, along with a reddish-purple rash (indicating that there is bleeding under your skin).
Early diagnosis and management have been shown to help reduce complications and potentially get you feeling better more quickly. According to the American Society of Hematology, treatment is usually indicated if your platelet count is lower than 30,000.
Early signs and symptoms of ITP
The early signs of ITP may simply include a reduction in your platelet count.
Low platelet symptoms can include:
- small, reddish-purple flat spots, known as petechiae
- bruises that seem to come from nowhere, known as purpura
- suddenly heavier menstrual periods
- blood in your gums, stool, or urine
- fatigue.
In many cases, ITP has no known cause. However, reduced platelets can also be triggered by other conditions or environmental exposures. Be sure to provide your doctor with a full picture of your health, as they may want to run additional tests to rule out other conditions.
Monitoring your body at home
While seeing your primary care provider or hematologist can help you keep up-to-date on your blood tests, there are things you can do at home to monitor your ITP symptoms.
Keep an eye out for bleeding
Sometimes, ITP symptoms are obvious. Other times, not so much. Bleeding gums, blood in your urine, or sudden flat reddish spots or bruises may be an indicator that your ITP is flaring up.
Even if you have just a smattering of new red spots or small bruises — especially if you’ve fallen or sustained an injury — it could mean it’s time to make an appointment to see your doctor.
Get an ITP tracking app or keep a symptom diary
Keeping track of your symptoms is a great way to understand the nature of your ITP. It can also help you know whether you’re responding to treatments or if lifestyle adjustments are helping.
There are apps you can download on your smartphone, which allow you to track your symptoms (like ITP bruising, bleeding, or fatigue) and medications you’re taking.
Take note of your fatigue
Research has shown that people with lower platelet levels experience more fatigue. This fatigue could be due to ITP itself or even to lifestyle factors or treatments for ITP. If you feel increasingly tired, even if you’re sleeping well, it may be worth talking to your provider.
When to seek medical attention
If you notice more fatigue, red spots, or bruising than normal, these could be low platelet warnings, and contacting your doctor is never a bad idea. But in certain cases, more urgent care may be needed.
- Contact your healthcare provider right away if you develop a fever or have symptoms of an infection, especially if you’ve had your spleen removed.
- Seek emergency medical help if you experience bleeding that cannot be stopped when you apply pressure to the area, as this means your platelet count has dropped significantly.
Recognizing the early warning signs of ITP can make all the difference in managing the condition and preventing complications. By staying alert to changes in your body and keeping open communication with your care team, you can take proactive steps to protect your health.
Bleeding Disorders News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
