Symptom 5: Easy Bruising and Bleeding
Here’s a scenario: you wake up one morning and notice a fresh bruise on your arm, having no recollection of a bump or injury. It’s easy to dismiss this as an accidental knock in your sleep, but when it becomes a recurring theme, it’s time to dig deeper. ALPS introduces this phenomenon of easy bruising and bleeding.
At the heart of this symptom lies the platelet – tiny blood cells playing a crucial role in clot formation. In ALPS, there’s often a reduction in the number of platelets, a condition termed thrombocytopenia. With fewer platelets, the blood’s ability to clot diminishes, leading to easy bruising and bleeding.
Beyond just the cosmetic concern of bruises, this symptom poses more significant health challenges. Minor cuts or wounds might bleed more than usual, or one might experience frequent or severe nosebleeds. Even more concerning is the potential for internal bleeding, which might not be immediately evident but can manifest as blood in urine or stools.
Adding another layer to the complexity, the body’s impaired immune response might mean that these wounds are more susceptible to infections. A simple cut, if not managed correctly, can become a gateway for bacteria and other pathogens.(5)
