Platelets and emotions

Why do I experience depression and mood swings especially when my platelets are low? Over the years I have been able to establish a connection between my moods/emotions and platelet count, is this common? If so, what can be done about it?

Platelets do carry an amount of seretonin in them. I notice the depression with low platelets too. consider an anti-depressant.

Your feelings are actually very common for this disorder, as I have come to know. When I had lower counts I would always feel tired. Also, the prednisone and other treatments can bring up the feelings of despair, hopelessness, and unhappiness. They did in me! I had horrible mood swings and I look back and feel so bad for my family who so graciously dealt with me! Yes, all this is normal and it will slowly start to go away. Just give it time.

Natalie

I haven't really noticed a difference. Sure, I have my moments, but not so much of an overwhelming thing. My husband on the other hand is an absolute basket-case. I'm serious, it's bad. He suffers from anxiety/depression anyway, and this whole "thing" has only made it worse. Some days I just wanna run and hide from him!

I've experienced this. I have gotten very snappy and super tired when my counts drop suddenly. I would try an anti depressant. I also think Vit B50 helps energy and moods. i think it's interesting that not everyone experiences this but some of us do.

I agree. When my counts are low I have a very short fuse and am very tired. I also cried easier. Know that you are not alone!

Hi,

Have you read the PDSA leafelt 'ITP in Adults - Frequently Asked Questions' it says a bit in there about depression and ITP.I have often thought that ITP & fatigue & depression are linked - have had all 3 for all my life and I'm 31! It was great to read that the PDSA list depression in their ITP booklet, I feel they explain it very well. I appreciate that very much as not so many Dr's or patients realise there is/could be a link.

I have severe ITP (counts 0-20 for 31yrs)and depression and fatigue and definitely need to do something about the depression again now..
Have tried anti-depressants in the past but would rather not go on them again if possible! (Although please don't take this as advise not to go on them yourself
I have just had soooo many different drugs that have horrible side effects that I want to try something more natural now. Which can make me feel more healthy and not mess up my body in other ways. I am not someone who tries anything and am wary of giving energy and money to false hopes but have come across something which may be a real help, so I'm hopefull this time!

I have recently been recommended to take 'EMPower' for depression by a friend. I know several people who 'swear' by it! (Although they are not ITP sufferers). Have a look at the website www.truehope.com , which is the home page for the manufacturers of this supplement - it sounds fantastic.

Am going to check this EMPower out with my haematologist to see if it's ok to take. If it is I'm going to give it a good try!

Wish you all the best! Will let you know if I have any success with EMPower... maybe it could help you too. Just remember that it is quite normal, as the others have said... and you are not alone!

Gilly

I looked at that website for EMPower. It's a multivitamin complex very high in B vitamins. If the depression is due to a vitamin deficiency, I can't see it being connected to ITP.

Yeah, who knows? Maybe it's not linked - maybe it is! If it works I don't really mind Will just give it a try (if its ok to take)

I wasn't myself when my counts were low, but it was because I was upset that counts were down. Autoimmune disorders can cause a sort of depression because you are dealing with an on-going health issue. The care-free days are gone (until you get remission).

You could try counseling and see if that helps.