The Reasons Why Blood Platelets Decrease In Dengue Fever

During the dengue season, platelet count often becomes a topic of concern. What are platelets and why do they decrease? In our body, there are three types of blood cells, one of which is platelets or thrombocytes. The main function of platelets is to help in clotting the blood.

It is critical in halting bleeding when there is a wound somewhere on the body. In dengue disease, platelet count decreases. However, it's not just dengue; platelet count can decrease due to other diseases or reasons as well.

Easiest ways to maintain normal platelet count in Dengue

To begin, let's examine the factors behind a decrease in platelet levels within the bloodstream:

Platelet quantities in our system range from 150,000 to 400,000 per microliter of blood. If it falls below the normal range, it's medically referred to as thrombocytopenia.

The main reasons for a decrease in platelets in the blood are:

1. Platelet destruction.
2. Insufficient production of platelets.



A: Various viral infections like dengue, COVID-19, and Hepatitis B, among others, can lead to a decrease in platelet count. Apart from viruses, certain bacterial infections can also result in this condition.

B: Some medication reactions and cancer-related treatments like chemotherapy can cause a decrease in platelet count.

C: Different blood disorders such as leukemia, other types of blood cancer, or bone marrow-related diseases can also lead to a decrease in platelets.

D: Excessive alcohol consumption and liver-related problems are significant causes of low platelet count.

E: Some diseases related to immunity, like ITP (Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura), can cause platelet destruction.

F: Certain complex issues during pregnancy can also lead to a decrease in platelet count.


Effects of Decreased Platelet Count in Blood

A decrease in platelets or thrombocytopenia is not a medical emergency on its own. This means that a person with low platelet count won't suddenly die due to bleeding—the situation is not that dire. However, if the platelet count drops significantly, like below 10,000 per microliter, there can be a risk of internal bleeding within the body, such as in the brain, kidneys, or heart.

Symptoms of Decreased Platelet Count

Some symptoms might indicate a decreased platelet count. These include minor bleeding, the appearance of pinpoint red spots on the skin (petechiae), or the presence of purple patches beneath the skin. Prolonged bleeding might occur if there's an injury anywhere on the body, and there could be bleeding from the gums, nose, or with stool.


What to Do When Platelet Count Decreases Due to Dengue

A decrease in platelet count due to dengue is a common occurrence. It's important not to panic but seek medical advice. Generally, over a certain period, as the impact of dengue on the body diminishes, the platelet count also gradually returns to normal.

A doctor determines the treatment approach based on the pattern of platelet changes through regular blood tests. It's essential to follow medical advice and not resort to any unverified or unscientific treatments.

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