Why is there a fall in platelet count after dengue fever?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 32 years old, and my weight is 53 kilograms. I am affected by C type of dengue. Last week, my platelet count was 204,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Now, I have a mild fever at night and mild abdominal pain in the right side. I am feeling weak, and I am taking good food and drink. Please help me.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

In dengue, platelet count usually falls after having a fever. So keep on monitoring the platelet count, and if it goes below 1 lakh, then it requires an admission. Never take any painkillers other than Paracetamol. Take antacid like Pantoprazole to avoid having a gastrointestinal bleed. Avoid doing heavy activities, and do not strain during passing stools and micturition.

If the platelet count becomes low, then avoid doing brushing as well as using mouthwash. Drink plenty of water up to three to four liters. Go to the hospital immediately if there is shortness of breath, and bleeding because even normal platelet count causes a bleed due to platelet dysfunction.