Flying with a count of under 5

[clh02]

My husbands count has not been above 5 for ages now and we are going on holiday in a couple of weeks time.

Has anyone flew with a low count of 5 and under?

[lc12345]

In the recent Platelet edition they do not recommend flying with this platelet level. I believe thought the doctor would say that the danger depends on symptoms - whether there are bruises, petechiae. There are cases when people don't have any symptoms because their body found another way of dealing with it - other blood clotting factors have increased. Then the danger is probably low.

[sailor]

I agree with Ic2345, any decision must be influenced by the symptoms in the first instance and secondly, by your holiday destination. I have flown regularly ( short and long haul ) with a count of 10 however, I research hospitals where I am going, just in case. Take a letter from your GP or consultant, this may also be beneficial and if you have a medical card ( obtainable from the itp support association ), this could also be beneficial.

[kered]

Yes I agree with what has been written But in coming to a decision Holiday Insurance in relation to the terms of medical conditions, should be read carefully, importantly to the question --are you travelliing agaist medical advice? Having said that all should be well in an EU country but taking a translation of the condition and current treatments,if any, is available in several local languages from the ITP Support association and for peace of mind know where the nearest medical help is available.

[kered in reply to kered]

I have just seen Anyhony's post on travel abroad posted just before my reply to the original question of flying with a very low count. I would add only to read WELL what is in his comments. This topic is also being discussed on the PDSA discussion groups web- site at the moment and well worth a look.

[clh02]

Thanks all. We were asking out of curiosity as we appreciate everyone is different. Our doctor is not stopping us from going abroad therefore we are not going against medical advice, we also have correct and valid travel insurance that fully covers ITP. On the safe side and weighing up the risk factors from flying we are going to take the train and have a fab time

[Lisa1979Wilson]

Hi there my platelets too go up and down the lowest was at 3 yet seem to fluctuate now from 7-10 . I've flown with low platelets I was ok I just noticed if your going to a hot country I had blood blisters on my tongue or inside of my cheeks an if I'm in the sun too much I would see the petechia on my arms or hands be careful in the sun that's for sure !