Hydroxyurea and activity

[MJL1977]

I read in the warning for Hydroxyurea that you should avoid contact sports and activities that cause bruising. I plan to ask my doctor during my next visit but I’m hoping someone can help.

I have ET with CALR and started HU this week. Part of staying mentally and physically healthy is a contact sport (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) that can occasionally cause minor bruising.

Is minor bruising a concern to someone taking HU to lower platelets or is that a general rule?

[WileyFrench]

Hi there - I think maybe we have to be somewhat careful about bruising but I play racquet sports and have ET, take hydroxy, clopidogrel and low-dose aspirin. I asked my haemo if I should stop and he said no.

[francesb]

Hi, I was told the ban on contact sports is because if one has an enlarged spleen an injury could cause it to rupture. Best wishes.

[lucieboo]

I think it depends whether it bothers you to have bruises: I bruise easily, sometimes just 'out of the blue' and don't do contact sports. It is the occasional black eye which I am not too keen on. Perhaps you could wear a soft helmet? They look really classy to me.

[NewBloom]

I bruise easily but still attend gym and run as much as I can. Consultant said not to stop any not push myself too hard and take a break when fatigued or unwell.

[BloodZero]

I seemed to bruise more before I started taking Hydroxy, when on Aspirin only. Even then it didnt bother me. Personally I rather keep doing what I enjoy. As far as i know, bruising wont impact your health.

[GardenGal3]

I play soccer and I'm not about to stop (40 years now). Have not had trouble with bruising. Take Hydrox, ET with CALR.