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Rib pain, back pain, and high platelet count.
Hello, sorry this is posted under blood cancers. I could not find a tab for just blood.
I had a CBC with Diff this last week and everything was normal except my platelets. They usually sit at 426, but was 446! I have chronic pain in my knees, pelvis, and back and I’m only 22. They think I may have endometriosis, but is unsure due to me not being able to afford surgery. I Was in pain and in my period when I got my blood drawn.
I had COVID in January and had a terrible cough which made something pop in my right rib area on the lower side.
So worried this could be something more devious.
It’s been months why is my rib hurting still, and could endometriosis and bone pain cause a high platelet count?
Any reasons for a high platelet count. I now have to go for another blood test in 4 weeks.
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Hi @nihssa12 and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. No worries about where you posted this. You’re in the right place.
My daughter had endometriosis and it was so painful for her every month. I’m sorry you’re having to go through this. It sounds as though your doctor wants to do a laparoscopic procedure to check verify. My daughter was able to try birth control which helped her condition immensely because it stopped the monthly hormone changes. She didn’t need the surgery. Has your doctor mentioned this option?
I did a little research regarding the pop you felt when coughing. I think you might find this article of interest and it may be beneficial when talking to your doctor. It explains what happens when you cough vigorously and feel a pop. This sounds very similar to what you’re going through. From what I’m reading you might benefit from the help of a physical therapist.
https://theheartandbrain.com/i-coughed-and-felt-a-pop-in-my-ribs/
Your higher platelet count isn’t anything extreme. It’s still under the upper ‘normal’ limit for platelets. There are a number of factors which can temporarily raise your level. Inflammation or infection being two of them. Inflammation is often the cause of pain and since you mentioned your chronic knee, pelvic and back pain, that is a possible source of the elevated platelets.
There are blood tests to check for inflammation markers. Have you mentioned your chronic pain, besides the endometriosis, to your doctor?
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4 ReactionsVery helpful comment. You made me feel so much better. However, I’ll now try to remain calm and continue with my care.
I am on birth control, but I sort of quit taking it because I’m bad about it. Now the pain is unbearable. I have mentioned my pain but no one seems concerned.
I’m glad I could help you out a little but the bigger picture is why you’re in so much continued pain. Does this pain which your doctor feels is endometriosis get worse during your period and wane during the rest of the month?
There are other possible options besides the surgery for this condition. When you were on the birth control did you feel less pain during the month? If you did and you’re not good about taking pills, you could consider an IUD placement. They can be in for up to 5 years without having to be replaced. It made an enormous difference for my daughter. But endometriosis really should be evaluated and treated so there is no long term damage and years of this horrible pain for you.
Don’t be afraid to speak up to your doctor and ask questions. Be polite, respectful but assertive. There is no reason for them to ignore what you’re going through. You deserve to be helped. Write down your symptoms and the points you want to have them understand. It helps if you get this written down ahead of time before you get to the office.
Have you had any other tests done besides a blood test, such as an ultrasound or an MRI of your pelvic area?
There are some good conversations in our Connect forum under women’s reproductive health. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/what-do-you-want-to-know-about-endometriosis/
Are you seeing a gynecologist or a primary care physician?