How much platelets should be in dengueImage Credit Source: Getty Images
Dengue platelet count: As soon as the monsoon arrives, the number of mosquitoes increases and at the same time the cases of dengue also start coming up rapidly. Fever, body pain, and pain behind the eyes- these are common symptoms of dengue that almost everyone can identify. But when it comes to dengue, it is most intimidated by one thing – platelets count. As soon as someone has dengue, first people start to know the count of platelets and start getting nervous. Social media or the conversation of the neighborhood, there is a discussion everywhere how much platelets are left?
But is it really the biggest danger in dengue? Is it necessary to be hospitalized every time platelets decrease? And the biggest question – how much should be the right platelet count? Falling of platelets in dengue is a common process, but the need to be afraid is only when symptoms of bleeding are seen with it. The correct information and treatment at the right time can be completely cured with dengue.
What are platelets
First of all, understand what platelets do in our body. Platelets are small particles of blood that help in making blood clots. When we cut or injury, these platelets prevent blood from flowing. The amount of platelets in the body of a normal person is about 1.5 lakh to 4.5 lakh per microliter.
The virus in dengue affects the bone marrow i.e. bone marrow, which reduces platelets and their breakdown becomes more. Platelets falling in dengue are common, but it is not serious in every case. Actually, in many cases of dengue, platelets also go below 1 lakh, yet the patient is cured. Many times doctors insist on controlling fever and keeping hydration (water content) right.
How much platelets should be there in dengue?
When platelets fall below 20,000 and at the same time the symptoms of bleeding are seen in the body. Such as bleeding from gums, blood in urine, red or blue stain on the skin. If these are not symptoms and platelets are 50,000 or more, then it is not a matter of much worry.
According to Dr. Ajit Kumar of the Department of Medicine at GTB Hospital in Delhi, As long as the platelets are above 30,000 and the patient is not getting any bleeding, there is no need to offer platelet transfusion. This is a very big myth that platelets should start offering blood as soon as they reduce. By doing this, the natural recovery process of the body can stop.
What to do for recovery
Dengue is a real cure for the body to give enough rest, drink a lot of water, to take coconut water, fruit juice and follow the instructions of the doctor. There is a lot of confusion among people for home remedies like papaya leaves juice, Giloy and goat milk. There is no scientific evidence that they increase platelets. Yes, water and liquids definitely keep the body hydrated which are helpful in recovery.