Low platelets

[Paulo1976]

Hi all, my mum is just going through chemo for small cell lung cancer. She has just had her second treatment, which was carboplatin and etoposide. This knocked for six and she has been in hospital with low white blood cells, low haemoglobin and has no immune system. I appreciate these are common side effects. As a result, mum has had a blood transfusion and her levels are rising, which is good. However, her platelets are low and reducing. She is on blood thinners for a clot on her lung and wondered if these could effect the platelets? Also, going forward, what would be the expected treatment to treat these low levels? There is talk of a platelet transfusion as a last resort. Because of all this, her next chemo will now be put back. Any thoughts or anyone experienced this would we welcomed. Thanks for reading.

[Carolineminiaturist]

Hi Sorry to hear your mum is in hospital with it. I have just had my second after being borderline. 2 Days in and I feel washed out. I still have tablets next week depending on my bloods. I hope she recovers well and I will be following progress. Regards Caroline. x

[Leniko]

a good friend used to donate platelets to be used by people who need them. I’m glad it’s an option for your mom.

[Babydolltina]

Hi Paulo, so sorry to hear about your Mom. When she had finish d her last bout of chemo, did the hospital give her an injection to boost the white cells. It would have gone into her tummy, as they forgot my late wife's the first time she had chemo and she was hospitalised too because of this. Just keep asking the Nurses and Oncologist if you're concerned about her treatment. It is right for the type of cancer she has.God Bless you all

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Hello Paulo 1976,

So sorry to hear about your Mum’s cancer. This must be a very difficult time for you all. Some medications including chemotherapy can damage bone marrow, where platelets are made. Blood thinners can also cause low platelets and affect clotting, but are often essential to care, and your Mum’s medical team will direct care going forward. Low platelets are usually temporary and this is reasonably common. Platelet count can be increased either by delaying the next dose of chemo or by a transfusion. Platelet transfusions are usually relatively straightforward, with the most common side effect being a temporary fever. There is no quick fix for increasing platelets naturally, but research suggests eating food rich in folate or vitamin b12 can help. A steady intake of water can also assist by changing the blood components.

You might find out information leaflet on chemotherapy helpful. It can be found here: roycastle.org/app/uploads/2...

Your Mum might also be interested in some of our support options. We have a range of support services, from one to one support to online support groups through zoom , if you or your Mum are interested in any of these you can register through this link: roycastle.org/help-and-supp... Or by emailing [e-mail]

I hope some of this is helpful Paulo, but if there is anything else you would like to discuss you can email ask the nurse at [e-mail] or why not call our free phone nurse led helpline number on 0800 358 7200 Monday to Thursday 0900-1700 and Friday 0900-1600.

[Paulo1976]

Hey all, firstly, thanks so much for all the kind advice and thoughts. Good news, mum been released home today. They have postponed her next chemo but hopefully it will happen next week. Hope everyone is staying safe and thanks again. X

[Paulo1976]

Hi again, another question and advice sought please...my mum's hair is now falling out...her head is sensitive. Anyone recommend a particular product or shampoo to help please? I have looked on line but nothing sticks out. Thanks all 👍🏻

[sassassas]

Hi Paulo1976

I'm sorry to hear your mum's hair is now falling out. My husband used various of the Aveeno products for his hair and skin when his hair fell out & we'd recommend them.

Just so you know, his hair did grow back very well after the chemo finished, and you'd never know now that he'd gone through hair loss.

Best wishes, Sarah x

[Paulo1976]

Thank you