Low platelets on chemo

Hello HopeFi

Thanks for getting in touch, and welcome to our online community. My name is George, and I'm one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

Unfortunately, we do not have access to the NHS and personal medical records and can only give general information and support. Therefore, we recommend discussing any questions with your medical team or GP. I am sorry to hear about your finance's low platelet count, which has postponed his treatment. If they develop any signs of bleeding or bruising, this should be reported immediately to the chemotherapy advice line, Medical team, GP or 111. If these symptoms suddenly worsen, you should call 999 for immediate assessment. 

Chemotherapy is designed to attack the cancer cells in the body, which means that the blood cells being made in the bone marrow are also affected. So, patients end up with low blood counts, which is expected and normal. In most cases, it can be the white cell count (WCC) that is affected, and if this drops too low, it does increase the risk of infection. With platelets, it affects the clotting of the blood, so doctors will sometimes have to delay chemotherapy if the platelet count is too low. 

Platelets damaged from the chemotherapy have an expected life span of 8-10 days. Therefore, it would be expected that the platelets should recover within a week to 10 days, but they will recheck these before any further treatment. 

There are no natural remedies that can be taken which will increase their platelet count. If someone continued to have very low platelet counts, then doctors would consider giving a platelet transfusion. A well-balanced diet of green and brightly coloured vegetables, fruits, and animal/plant protein can supply valuable minerals, nutrition and vitamins vital for good overall health. At Macmillan, we produce further guidance on diet and nutrition. We also have a booklet, The Build-up Diet, if people struggle to maintain weight. We also have an extensive online community with many cancer forums where you can speak with others who understand what it's like to experience these side effects while on chemotherapy treatment.

Please do not hesitate to contact us on the support line to discuss any further concerns or questions. 

I hope this helps answer your questions and concerns.

Best wishes,

George 

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

Our ref: GHi/SA