Low Platelets (Thrombocytopenia)
Platelets are the blood cells that prevent or stop bleeding. Chemotherapy and/or radiation can decrease the production of platelets. During chemotherapy your doctor will monitor your platelet count. If your platelet count becomes too low, your doctor may postpone treatment or possibly give you a platelet transfusion.

If your platelet count gets too low, you may have the following symptoms:

• Bruising or petichiae (small red spots often on legs and stomach).
• Bleeding from your gums or nose
• Blood in your urine or stool
• Heavier or longer menstrual periods
  

Call your Doctor for any of the following:

• Bruises or petechiae
• Bleeding from gums, mouth or nose
• Blood in your urine or stool
• Coughing or vomiting blood
• Sudden swelling or pain of a joint
• Eyes that look blood shot
• Heavier or longer menstrual periods
• Headaches, dizziness or fainting
• Any bleeding that will not stop
  

Preventing complications

• Check for blood in your stool or urine
• Use a soft bristled toothbrush or a sponge toothette for mouth care.
• Check with your doctor before having dental work
• Use an electric razor
• Avoid aspirin or products containing aspirin. Check with your pharmacist or nurse before taking any medication you buy over the counter
• Be careful with knives, scissors, or sharp objects to prevent cuts
• Apply pressure to any bleeding injury until the bleeding stops
• Wear loose clothing that does not bind or pinch
• Avoid alcoholic beverages, mouthwash, liquid cold medicine or any other over the counter medication that contains alcohol
• Do not use suppositories or put anything in your rectum
• Do not use tampons