Is Any Treatment Available for Low Platelets?

A low platelet count, while not necessarily a cause for concern, can indicate disease or disorder. Medical authorities have not reached a consensus as to what constitutes a low platelet count, although some consider a count of less than 100,000 to be below average. Indications that a person has a low platelet count might include bruising, excessive bleeding from small wounds, nosebleeds, or bleeding from soft tissues such as the gums. Causes range from folate deficiency to alcohol abuse. There are several choices of treatment for raising the count of platelets.

Medical Treatment

• Most hospitals will advise patients who might have low platelet counts, or who have tested low for platelets, to be admitted to a hospital or clinic. Several types of therapies might be attempted by hospitals to ensure reasonable platelet levels. Steroid medications, such as prednisone, can help maintain healthy platelet levels by ensuring that your natural antibodies do not destroy platelets. Spleen issues for low platelet count are often treated by a variety of medications or, in serious cases, by removal of the spleen. A transfusion of platelets might restore your platelet balance to normal; it's an option if your count is dangerously low. You might be asked to remain on bed rest for several days until your platelet count is sufficiently high, to avoid further injury.

Homeopathic Treatment

• Anecdotal evidence suggests that some natural remedies might help raise platelet levels. Vitamin cures for low platelet levels often include Vitamin E. Although high doses might increase the tendency to bleed in some people, reasonable amounts can help regulate platelet levels until they return to normal. Herbal remedies can involve a combination of several natural supplements, including astragalus, tang-kuei, moutan, perilla stem, licorice and eclipta. Any use of unconventional or homeopathic medicine should be checked with a doctor first.

Minimize Risk

• General care and hygiene can positively affect any medicines or remedies administered. A healthy lifestyle promotes the growth of platelet levels and fends off any ill effects of low platelets. Using a soft toothbrush and discontinuing the use of dental floss will often guard against injury to the gums. Treating a dry mouth by sucking on ice chips or sipping a beverage frequently is often helpful to patients with low platelet counts. General care, such as not blowing your nose or coughing too forcefully, might prevent irritation and bleeding caused by platelet issues. Don't use products such as douches or tampons, to avoid the possibility of inflammation, cutting or bruising.