Newly diagnosed

I am 28, when I was pregnant last year I found out that I had low blood platelets. Mine were around 100, they dropped to around 80 before giving birth and I took prednisone and they got up to 103 when I went into the hospital to deliver my son, that was October 2011. July 2012 I went back to the hematologist and was expecting my numbers to be back up and it was just a pregnancy thing. Well my numbers were at 140 and he diagnosed me with ITP. My appointment went by so fast and I think I was in shock so I didn't ask any questions or anything. With my numbers being 140 I know that isn't really low but it is below normal. I have so many questions and I don't go back until Jan to see him again. He said he wants to see me every 6 months. I don't know what I need to know, what to look for or how I need to change my life. I'm so confused and I guess just need someone who has experience to help my understand what this diagnosis means.

Hey Krissy,
No worries! If you are at 140k then it seems like your doctor is just being overly cautious. The new standard for ITP (new as of maybe 3 years ago) is that you don't even HAVE ITP unless you are below 100k. Most doctors don't treat unless you are below 30k or have bleeding symptoms. Seems like your doctor just wants to keep an eye on your platelet levels. If he was really worried you would be visiting his office monthly or more often. If you have unexplained bruises or bleeding, then you should go see him earlier.

Relax! You'll be fine.

Hi, Krissy, welcome. A count of 140 is in the normal range. So like Ananta says, you'll be fine.

Krissy - I agree with the others. There isn't anything you need to do except monitor your counts when the doctor wants you to. There aren't any lifestyle changes to make at this point.

If you notice increased bruising without bumping yourself or any unusual bleeding, you could ask to have a count done. Other than that, move on with your life and forget about it.

Welcome Krissy.
As the others have said, Relax you will be fine. A count of 140k is fine, so not sure why the Dr diagnosed you with ITP. Sounds like the drop may have been due to your pregnancy. When I was around 100k, the Dr started monitoring my counts. I started bruising and continued to drop. A Bone Marrow Biopsy was done to rule out other posibilities. I was diagnosed with ITP after the BMB showed no issues.
DO NOT stress out over this questionable diagnosis. If you notice unusuall bruising/bleeding, then I would talk to your Dr. No lifestyle changes need to be made. Best thing right now is not to think about it.