Platelets are produced in the bone marrow which is the soft tissue in the center of most bones. Platelets help make blood clot (stop bleeding). When your platelet count goes down you may bleed more easily and for a longer time. A low platelet count is called thrombocytopenia.

Impact of Chemotherapy

Most cancer cells grow and divide very quickly. Chemotherapy drugs work by acting quickly on dividing cells. Unfortunately, chemotherapy drugs can't tell the difference between cancer cells and normal cells that also divide quickly. Blood cells such as red blood cells, white blood cells (neutrophils), and platelets all divide quickly and are also killed by chemotherapy drugs. However, the decrease in your blood cell count with chemotherapy is only temporary.

Blood Test Monitoring

Blood tests are taken regularly to monitor your platelet counts. - Normal platelet count: 145 - 375 - If your platelet level is very low (usually below 20) platelets may be given by an intravenous infusion (IV).

Signs and Symptoms associated with Low Platelets

• Bruising easily
• Small pinpoint red spots called petechiae
• Blood in urine
• Easy bleeding of gums
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Blood tinged or black bowel movements
• Bleeding from cuts and scratches that won't stop
  

Suggestions to help you live with Low Platelets

Modifying your lifestyle:

• Avoid activities that can cause physical injury and protect yourself from harm.
• Use a clean electric razor rather than a straight or twin bald safety razor.
• Do not let anyone give you a needle unless your cancer doctor has said it is okay.
• Do not wear clothes that are tight. Avoid harsh or coarse fabrics.
• Avoid blowing your nose. If absolutely necessary, do so gently keeping both nostrils open.
• Take necessary actions to keep your bowel movements soft, through diet or by medications, and do not push during a bowel movement.
• Bend at the knees and not the waist to pick items up.
• If you need to move yourself up in bed, do so by inching your bottom upward along the bed, not by pushing with both arms on the bed to lift your bottom up.
• Check with your doctor before taking any medications (especially those containing aspirin).
• Consult your physician for any sexual activity restrictions.
• Use lubricant during sexual intercourse
• Women: use napkins not tampons, and do not douche
• DO NOT give yourself enemas or suppositories.
• Keep nails short and smooth. Trim nails carefully to avoid cuts.
• Do mouth care frequently, carefully, yet thoroughly
• Use deodorant rather than antiperspirant
• After a bowel movement, clean rectal area thoroughly.
• Do not use dental floss.

Diet

• You should eat high protein, high calorie food.
• Choose soft, non-spicy foods.
• Eat well balanced meals. Dietitians are available to assist you in planning.
• Drink 2-3 litres (8-12 glasses) of liquid a day unless you have a heart or kidney problem.
• DO NOT use straws unless truly necessary. They can be irritating to the inside of the mouth and tongue.
  

In conclusion

Protect yourself from injury and maintain strict self-care.

If you have any further concerns or questions that you are unsure of, please ask your doctor or nurse for help.

Call your doctor if:

• You bleed anywhere for more than 5 minutes.
• You notice blood in your vomit, urine, sputum or bowel movements.
• The blood in a bowel movement is red, black or tarry colored and is new.
• You develop a rash, spots or an increase in bruising.

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