Dengue is rapidly spreading throughout the nation, with over 3,830 cases reported in Sindh alone. The people in other regions, such as Lahore and Islamabad, are also experiencing the effects of this outbreak.
During this challenging period, it is crucial to acquire comprehensive knowledge about the treatment of this virus. Please find below information on how to increase platelets in dengue.
What are Platelets?
The proper amount of platelets in our blood is necessary for clot formation, which prevents excessive bleeding. To determine your platelet count, a doctor can perform a simple blood test.
Typically, a healthy platelet count ranges between 150,000 and 450,000 per microliter of blood. The body usually replenishes the platelet supply in the bone marrow continuously.
When the platelet count drops below normal levels, it is referred to as thrombocytopenia. Certain disorders can disrupt this process and lead to a decrease in platelet numbers.
Low Platelet Count Symptoms
As per health organizations, certain symptoms of thrombocytopenia usually manifest when a person’s platelet counts are significantly low. These symptoms may include:
- Prolonged bleeding even from minor injuries.
- Nosebleeds.
- Bleeding gums.
- Presence of blood in urine.
- Blood in the stool, which can appear bright red, black, or tarry.
- Excessive menstrual flow.
- Easy bruising.
- Appearance of red, purple, or brownish-yellow areas on the skin, indicating bleeding beneath the skin.
style=”font-weight: 400;”>Formation of small, flat, red, or brown patches beneath the skin, known as petechiae, caused by bleeding blood vessels.
Why do platelets decrease in dengue?
In the case of dengue fever, the virus enters the bloodstream, attaches to platelets, and undergoes replication, leading to the multiplication of the dengue virus.
The infected platelet cells tend to destroy healthy platelets, resulting in a decrease in platelet count, which is one of the primary reasons for thrombocytopenia in dengue fever.
According to research, “Thrombocytopenia is a significant characteristic observed during DENV infection, occurring in both mild and severe cases of dengue. However, the lowest platelet counts are typically observed in severe cases.”
How to Increase Platelets in Dengue?
Here are some home remedies that can potentially help increase platelet count quickly in cases of dengue:
Incorporate Green Vegetables: Consuming more leafy green vegetables is beneficial because they contain Vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in the production of proteins involved in the clotting process. Vitamin K can help maintain the body’s ability to prevent excessive bleeding. Green vegetables such as collard greens, turnip greens, spinach, kale, and broccoli are excellent sources of Vitamin K.
Consume Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C, which is essential for proper platelet function. Increasing Vitamin C levels can enhance the performance of existing platelets. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are excellent sources of Vitamin C.
Include Iron-Rich Foods: Iron is necessary for the synthesis of red blood cells, including platelets. Increasing iron intake can naturally improve platelet counts. Research has shown that it can also raise platelet counts in individuals with iron-deficiency anaemia. Foods rich in iron include lentils, pumpkin seeds, and beef.
Ensure Adequate Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for increasing platelet count in dengue. It supports the proper functioning of bones, muscles, nerves, and the immune system. While sunlight exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, not everyone can obtain sufficient amounts from sunlight alone. Consuming foods rich in Vitamin D, such as egg yolks, salmon, tuna, and fortified milk and yogurt, can help increase its levels.
Opt for High-Folate Foods: Folate or Vitamin B9 is essential for cell health and the production of healthy blood cells. It is naturally found in various foods and is often added as folic acid. Sources of folate include peanuts, black-eyed peas, kidney beans, and orange juice.
What is the dengue platelet recovery time?
The recovery period for dengue infection typically begins within 10 days, with a slight increase in platelet count observed around 7-8 days into the recovery phase.
In general, it takes approximately 7-8 days to recover from dengue fever.
FAQ
Q1: What causes thrombocytopenia in dengue fever?
Ans: The dengue virus infects and replicates within platelet cells, leading to decreased platelet count.
Q2: How long does it take to recover from dengue fever?
Ans: The recovery period for dengue fever usually takes around 7-8 days.
Q3: Can platelet count be increased quickly in dengue?
Ans: There are no instant remedies, but maintaining a healthy diet and proper medical care can support platelet recovery.
Q4: Which foods can help increase platelet count in dengue?
Ans: Foods rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, iron, vitamin D, and folate can potentially support platelet production.