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Questions and answers

If platelets are low

Platelets are small cells that stop bleeding. When they are low, a few simple precautions help a lot.

Last updated: ~1 min read
Few platelets
Figure 1.Few platelets — If platelets are low

01Short answer

When platelets are low (thrombocytopenia), you may notice easy bruising, bleeding gums, nosebleeds and tiny red dots on the skin (petechiae). This is common in leukemia and after chemotherapy. A soft toothbrush, an electric shaver, care to avoid falls, and avoiding medicines such as aspirin or ibuprofen without your doctor’s approval are recommended. When needed, the doctor arranges a platelet transfusion.

02Simple explanation

Platelets are the blood’s “patch menders”.

When they are low, even a small injury can bleed.

03Scientific explanation

The threshold for a preventive platelet transfusion depends on the clinical situation (fever, bleeding, a procedure); each centre has its own protocol.

Some painkillers (NSAIDs) weaken platelet function, so take them only with your doctor’s approval.

04What happens in the body?

Signs

Easy bruising, petechiae, bleeding gums or nose, blood in urine or stools, heavier periods. Report every new sign to your team.

Everyday care

A soft toothbrush, floss only if allowed, gentle nose-blowing, an electric shaver, care with sharp objects and a safe home to avoid falls. Avoid constipation; ask your team how.

A soft toothbrush and an electric shaver
Figure 2.A soft toothbrush and an electric shaver

Medical help

Platelets are transfused when the doctor decides. The count is checked before injections and procedures.

A platelet transfusion
Figure 3.A platelet transfusion

05When platelets are low

Four simple rules.

Know your count — Ask for your latest result.1Know your countAsk for your latest result.
Gentle care — A soft brush and an electric shaver.2Gentle careA soft brush and an electric shaver.
Avoid injury — A safe home, careful movement.3Avoid injuryA safe home, careful movement.
Transfusion if needed — The doctor decides.4Transfusion if neededThe doctor decides.
Less bleedingCare prevents injuries.
Quick helpKnowing the signs matters.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
SignsEasy bruising, petechiae, bleeding gums or nose, blood in urine or stools, heavier periods. Report every new sign to your team.
Everyday careA soft toothbrush, floss only if allowed, gentle nose-blowing, an electric shaver, care with sharp objects and a safe home to avoid falls. Avoid constipation; ask your team how.
Medical helpPlatelets are transfused when the doctor decides. The count is checked before injections and procedures.

07Key terms

Platelet
A small blood cell that stops bleeding.
Petechiae
Tiny red dots on the skin.
NSAID
Anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

08Key points

  • Low platelets raise bleeding risk.
  • Gentle care and caution help.
  • Do not take medicines without your doctor.
  • Call an ambulance for heavy bleeding.

09Frequently asked questions

Can I exercise?

A gentle walk is usually fine; avoid contact sports.

What should I do for a nosebleed?

Sit, lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose; if it does not stop, call.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Can I exercise?

  2. What should I do for a nosebleed?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Bleeding and Bruising (Thrombocytopenia) and Cancer Treatment
  2. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  3. NHS. Blood transfusion
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). The Genetics of Cancer
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Chemotherapy to Treat Cancer
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Diagnosis
  7. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask about Cancer Treatment
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Hair Loss (Alopecia) and Cancer Treatment
  9. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: remission
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Follow-Up Medical Care
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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