Dengue fever, a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes, can rapidly decline our platelet count. It can cause a condition known as thrombocytopenia. In this condition, individuals experience bruising, fatigue, and bleeding gums. Thus, maintaining a healthy platelet count is essential to prevent complications during dengue.
Platelets are blood components that help prevent excessive bleeding by forming clots. Now, if you are wondering how to increase platelet count in dengue, we’re here to help. Here, we'll explore some of the simplest and most effective ways to boost platelet count naturally.
Why Do Platelets Drop in Dengue?
Platelet count decreases in dengue fever due to the following reasons:
- When the bone marrow, which produces platelets, is attacked by the dengue virus, it leads to a sudden and sometimes life-threatening drop in platelets.
- The virus can cause abnormal immune system reactions, where the immune cells attack healthy platelets and destroy them.
- The virus can cause the inner lining of the blood vessels to become sticky, leading to the adherence of platelets. This reduces the number of platelets in circulation.
What is the Range of Platelet Count in Dengue Fever?
150,000 to 450,000 in every microliter of blood is the average platelet count in a healthy person. In an individual suffering from dengue, the range differs according to the severity of the condition:
- Mild Cases: From 50,000 to 100,000
- Sever Cases: Below 20,000, resulting in internal bleeding and other life-threatening conditions.
How to Increase Platelet Count in Dengue?
If you don't know how to increase platelets in dengue, you can try these methods:
Natural Ways
Stay hydrated, as it helps support blood circulation and overall health. Proper hydration helps maintain the balance of bodily fluids and ensures nutrients are effectively transported to cells, including those responsible for platelet production. Additionally, getting sufficient rest aids the body in its recovery process and promotes healthy platelet production.
You should eat a well-balanced diet that is rich in essential nutrients. It will support platelet production. Focus on incorporating foods high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B-12, C, D, and K, iron and folate.
You can incorporate lean meats, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals into your diet. They can provide the necessary iron for healthy platelet production. Iron is a vital component of haemoglobin and supports overall blood health.
Folate in spinach, black-eyed peas, and fortified cereals supports platelet health and division. Adding these foods to your diet can contribute to maintaining a healthy platelet count.
Medical Treatments for Increasing Platelet Count
A person suffering from dengue is given the following medical treatments for boosting platelets:
- Transfusions: In cases of severely low platelet count, transfusion of thrombocytes is advised to avoid complications.
- Intravenous Fluids: IV fluids regulate hydration and enhance blood circulation, thus indirectly supporting platelet recovery.
Dietary Recommendations to Boost Platelet Count
This essential vitamin is found in sources such as eggs, fish, and fortified cereals. It supports red blood cell formation and platelet production. Ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin B-12 can contribute to healthy platelet levels.
You probably know that vitamin C is abundant in citrus fruits, strawberries, and various vegetables. It serves multiple bodily functions. It not only aids in proper platelet function but also provides immune support, which is particularly important during dengue fever.
Sunlight exposure and dietary sources like fish and fortified foods rich in vitamin D. It is crucial for bone marrow health and platelet synthesis. You should take this vitamin in moderation, as sufficient vitamin D intake can contribute to maintaining platelet count within a healthy range.
It is found in leafy greens and a variety of other vegetables. It plays an essential role in blood clotting and platelet activation. You can include foods rich in vitamin K in your diet as it can support platelet health.
Conclusion
Remember, prevention is better than cure. Preventing dengue fever starts with protecting yourself from mosquito bites. You can use a mosquito repellent or mosquito net, and wear appropriate clothing that covers your arms and legs. Having a health insurance plan can also be beneficial in managing any unforeseen medical expenses related to dengue or other illnesses. To protect yourself and your loved ones from the stress of costly treatments for any complication that may arise with diseases like dengue, obtaining critical illness insurance is advisable.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.