Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a disorder that affects the way human blood clots. The natural clotting of the blood is important to the self-healing process found in the body. This process is made possible through thrombocytes, or platelets, which are formed in bone marrow. Those with ITP will thus experience excessive external or internal bleeding. Although ITP is not generally considered a serious disorder, some cases may require medical attention. 

However, it is first necessary to recognize its warning signs:

1. Excessive bleeding

This is one of the most noticeable symptoms associated with ITP. The bleeding may occur during routine treatment by a dentist and, under the circumstances, can easily be confused with the gum disease gingivitis. Unusually frequent nosebleeds may indicate the presence of the disorder. Those with the condition may also notice blood during their normal urinary or eliminatory activities. Women with ITP may experience excessive blood flow during their menstrual periods, with severe cases leading to anemia.

2. Contusions

More commonly known as bruising, this condition results from the breaking of vessels beneath the skin and the pooling of blood that escapes from them. Contusions may stem from injuries, but those who experience them without any suspected trauma may have ITP. The low platelet levels have the effect of not stopping bleeding that occurs inside the body in the same way that they fail to prevent external bleeding.

3. Petechiae

This condition is indicated by the appearance of red or purple-colored dots or bumps on the surface of the skin. Resembling a rash, petechiae results from bleeding underneath the skin in the same manner as a contusion. The appearance of petechiae is a good reason to seek medical attention.

4. Fatigue

The external or internal bleeding that is associated with ITP can itself affect the body by increasing fatigue. This is because of the reduction in oxygen carried by the blood to the tissue and the various organs of the body. Since the body needs time to replenish the blood that has been lost, those with ITP may experience excessive fatigue. This condition may result in insufficient energy and the need for some nap time during the day, or a sense of tiredness even after a night of sleep. Excessive and unexplained fatigue are definite indications of ITP.

5. Understanding and treating ITP

Children may develop ITP after suffering from a viral infection, although the disorder usually disappears without treatment. In a small number of cases, childhood ITP can be fatal. Adult ITP is normally a long-term condition, although it may not require treatment provided that the platelet level is not excessively low. In some cases, the disorder may require treatment with specific medications and, on rare occasions, may necessitate removal of the spleen, the organ responsible for filtering the blood supply. Suspected cases of ITP can be properly diagnosed with a complete blood test. Since there is no cure available, ITP and its symptoms may reappear years after the initial treatment.