Which of the following is a common symptom of thrombocytopenia?

Easy bruising or bleeding is a common symptom of thrombocytopenia because this condition is characterized by a lower than normal platelet count in the blood. Platelets are essential for proper blood clotting and maintaining hemostasis, which is the process that prevents excessive bleeding when injury occurs. When platelet counts drop, the body's ability to form clots effectively is compromised, leading to an increased propensity for bleeding or easy bruising from minor injuries or even spontaneously without any apparent cause. This symptom is particularly notable in individuals with severely reduced platelet levels, reflecting the critical role platelets play in the clotting process.

In contrast, increased clotting is more associated with conditions like thrombophilia, while swollen legs typically indicate fluid retention or other issues not directly linked to platelet levels. Shortness of breath can arise from various medical conditions but is not a direct symptom of thrombocytopenia.