1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) 18 Ways to manage side effects Bleeding problems (thrombocytopenia) What it is and why it occurs Platelets are cells that make your blood clot when you bleed. Chemotherapy can lower the number of platelets because it affects your bone marrow’s ability to make them. A low platelet count is called thrombocytopenia. This condition may cause bruises even when you have not been hit or have not bumped into anything, bleeding from your nose or in your mouth, or a rash of tiny, red dots. Ways to manage thrombocytopenia Things to do: Î Brush your teeth with a very soft toothbrush. Î Soften the bristles of your toothbrush by running hot water over them before you brush. Î Use a water flosser to clean your gums and between your teeth. Î Blow your nose gently. Î Be careful when using scissors, knives, or other sharp objects. Î Use an electric shaver instead of a razor. Î Apply gentle but firm pressure to any cuts you get until the bleeding stops. Î Wear shoes all the time, even inside the house or hospital. Things not to do: Î Use dental floss or toothpicks. Î Play sports or do other activities during which you could get hurt. Î Use tampons, enemas, suppositories, or rectal thermometers. Î Wear clothes with tight collars, wrists, or waistbands.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTM2MzU4