How To Increase Platelet Count In Dengue

Dengue fever can lead to a significant drop in platelet count, causing complications. In this guide, we discuss various methods to naturally and effectively increase your platelet count during dengue. Learn about dietary changes, natural remedies, and medical advice to help speed up recovery.
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3 min
07-October-2024
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. One of the most alarming complications of dengue is a drastic drop in platelet count, a condition called thrombocytopenia. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are vital for blood clotting and wound healing. Maintaining a healthy platelet count is crucial for recovery during dengue.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to increase platelet count during dengue, including natural remedies, foods that help, and medical treatments. It also discusses the role of health insurance in managing dengue treatment costs.

Why platelet count drops during dengue fever?

Dengue fever leads to a sharp decrease in platelet count due to the virus's direct impact on bone marrow, where platelets are produced. The virus interferes with platelet production and also increases the destruction of existing platelets. Additionally, dengue causes damage to blood vessels, leading to leakage, which exacerbates the condition. As the body struggles to fight off the infection, its ability to replenish platelet levels is compromised, making it essential to support the body in rebuilding platelet count.

Foods that help increase platelet count in dengue

Nutrition plays a significant role in increasing platelet count during dengue. Incorporating certain foods into the diet can help boost platelet production and support overall health.

1. Papaya leaf extract:

One of the most effective natural remedies for increasing platelet count in dengue is papaya leaf extract. Studies suggest that papaya leaves stimulate platelet production and enhance immune function.

2. Pomegranate:

Rich in iron and antioxidants, pomegranates help improve platelet count and strengthen the immune system, which is essential during dengue.

3. Kiwi:

This fruit is packed with essential vitamins, including Vitamin C and E, which help promote platelet production and protect cells from damage.

4. Beetroot and carrot juice:

Both beetroot and carrot are loaded with iron and antioxidants, which can help increase red blood cells and platelets.

5. Spinach:

Spinach is high in Vitamin K, which is crucial for blood clotting and can help raise platelet levels.

6. Wheatgrass:

Wheatgrass contains chlorophyll and essential nutrients that stimulate platelet production and boost overall immunity.

7. Citrus fruits:

Rich in Vitamin C, citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes help in platelet production by strengthening the immune system.

Natural remedies for boosting platelet count

Along with consuming the right foods, certain natural remedies have been found to boost platelet count in dengue patients.

1. Giloy juice:

Giloy is an herbal remedy that has been used in traditional medicine for boosting immunity and platelet count. It helps detoxify the body and fights off infections.

2. Aloe vera juice:

Aloe Vera not only strengthens the immune system but also helps in detoxifying the body, aiding in faster platelet recovery.

3. Goat milk:

Drinking goat milk is believed to increase platelet production because of its natural nutrients, which help speed up recovery.

4. Basil (Tulsi) tea:

Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, Tulsi tea can help regulate platelet levels during dengue.

5. Pumpkin:

Pumpkin is rich in Vitamin A, which supports the production of platelets by improving cell development.

Medical treatments to increase platelet count during dengue

While natural remedies and foods are helpful, severe cases of thrombocytopenia during dengue may require medical intervention.

  • Platelet transfusion: In cases where the platelet count drops dangerously low, doctors may recommend a platelet transfusion. This procedure directly infuses platelets into the bloodstream, helping stabilise the patient.
  • Intravenous (IV) fluids: IV fluids are often administered to dengue patients to prevent dehydration and manage electrolyte imbalance. These fluids support overall recovery, including the restoration of platelet count.
  • Steroids: In certain cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent further platelet destruction. However, this is usually considered when other treatments fail to improve platelet count.
  • Immunoglobulin therapy: In severe cases of thrombocytopenia, intravenous immunoglobulins may be administered to boost the immune system and help the body fight the virus more effectively.
Read more: Health insurance for dengue

Signs that your platelet count is improving

Recognising the signs of recovery in platelet count is crucial for dengue management.

  • Decreased bleeding: As platelet levels start to recover, patients will notice a reduction in symptoms like nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising.
  • Improved energy levels: Low platelet count often leads to fatigue. As the count improves, patients will experience a noticeable increase in energy and strength.
  • Stabilised fever: A drop in fever, along with other improving symptoms, may indicate that platelet levels are returning to normal.
  • Reduced petechiae: Petechiae are small red or purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin. Fewer petechiae indicate a rise in platelet count.

How long does it take to recover platelet count after dengue?

The recovery of platelet count after dengue varies from patient to patient, depending on the severity of the infection and the treatments used. In mild cases, platelet count can start to improve within a week of fever subsiding, and it may take around two to three weeks for platelet levels to return to normal. For severe cases, recovery might take longer and could require continued medical attention. Regular blood tests are recommended during the recovery period to monitor platelet count and ensure it is returning to safe levels.

Role of health insurance in managing dengue treatment costs

Dengue treatment, especially when platelet count drops dangerously low, can be costly. Hospitalisation, medications, blood transfusions, and frequent blood tests can accumulate expenses. This is where having a comprehensive health insurance plan becomes invaluable. Health insurance policies can cover a significant portion of the costs associated with dengue treatment, including hospitalisation, diagnostic tests, and prescribed medications.

Many insurance providers offer specific plans that cater to vector-borne diseases like dengue, ensuring policyholders are financially protected. For those living in regions prone to dengue outbreaks, it’s wise to review health insurance policies that cover treatment for vector-borne illnesses, including coverage for emergency hospitalisation, ICU charges, and even follow-up consultations. With the rising costs of medical care, having a health insurance policy ensures peace of mind during the treatment and recovery process.

Conclusion

Dengue fever can severely impact platelet count, putting patients at risk of complications. Increasing platelet count during dengue involves a combination of dietary changes, natural remedies, and medical treatments, depending on the severity of the case. Foods like papaya leaf extract, kiwi, and pomegranate play a critical role in boosting platelet levels naturally. Medical interventions, such as platelet transfusions and IV fluids, may be necessary for more severe cases. Monitoring signs of improvement, such as reduced bleeding and increased energy, is essential for tracking recovery.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best foods to increase platelet count in dengue?
Foods like papaya leaf extract, pomegranates, kiwis, beetroot, carrots, spinach, and citrus fruits are highly beneficial for increasing platelet count during dengue. These foods provide essential nutrients that help the body produce more platelets.

Can papaya leaf juice increase platelet count in dengue?
Yes, papaya leaf juice is known to significantly increase platelet count in dengue patients. Its compounds help stimulate platelet production and boost the immune system, making it a widely recommended natural remedy for dengue recovery.

What are the symptoms of low platelet count during dengue?
Symptoms of low platelet count in dengue include frequent nosebleeds, gum bleeding, easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, red spots on the skin (petechiae), and extreme fatigue. These symptoms require immediate medical attention to prevent complications.

Is medical treatment necessary to increase platelet count in dengue?
Medical treatment may be necessary in severe cases of low platelet count during dengue. Treatments like platelet transfusions, intravenous fluids, and corticosteroids are used when natural remedies and dietary changes are insufficient to stabilise platelet levels.

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