Dengue fever is an epidemic that takes the lives of thousands of people every year. One of the major signs of dengue virus is low platelet count. But, what’s the link between dengue and platelets is a mystery to most people.
Check out why platelets decrease in dengue fever in this health blog along with other useful information.
Read also, Fruits recommended for dengue patient
What are Platelets?
Platelets are cells found in our blood. They are the tiniest blood cells and are only visible under a microscope. In their inactive state, they are physically fashioned like little plates. When a blood vessel is damaged, the body sends signals to platelets, causing them to go to the wounded site.
Platelets get the signal and move to the location. Their major role is to stop and prevent bleeding. They cluster together to create a clot, which aids in the stopping of bleeding.
Any increase or decrease in platelet count beyond their normal range can cause severe problems in the body.
Also, see Does Papaya Leaf Juice Increase Platelets?
Normal Platelet Range:
According to the NHBLI, NIH, normal platelet count varies from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. A platelet count of fewer than 150,000 platelets per microliter is considered poor. When you have a low platelet count, it may be difficult to stop bleeding.
| Risk | Platelet count (per cubic millimeter of blood) |
| Low risk |
40,000-100,000 |
| Moderate risk |
21-40,000 |
| High risk |
< 20,000 |
Symptoms of Low Platelets in the Body:
If you have a low platelet count you may have the following symptoms:
- red, purple, or brown bruises, called purpura
- nosebleeds
- bleeding gums
- a rash with small red or purple dots called petechiaE
- heavy menstrual bleeding
- bleeding from wounds that persist or do not cease
- blood in your urine
- bloody or very dark vomit
- blood in your stool
In rare circumstances, thrombocytopenia can cause a brain hemorrhage. If you have a low platelet count, see a healthcare expert. Click here to see an online doctor for dengue today via Marham.
3 Reasons Why Platelets Decrease in Dengue Fever:
Dengue virus (DENV) infects an estimated 390 million people and causes 25000 deaths each year around the world. –Research from 2017
When a dengue-infected mosquito bites a human, the virus enters the circulation, attaches to platelets, and replicates, causing the infectious virus to multiply. Some reasons why platelets decrease in dengue fever are:
1. Infected Platelets Kills Normal Platelets:
Infected platelet cells prefer to kill normal platelets, which is one of the primary reasons for the platelet count reduction in dengue fever.
2. Immune Cells Kill Platelets:
Meanwhile, disease-fighting cells are our body’s natural defense against the dengue virus. These cells kill regular platelets because they believe they are dangerous entities.
3. Dengue affects the Bone Marrow:
Furthermore, because bone marrow is the site for the formation of all blood cells, including platelets, dengue virus inhibition leads to a lower platelet count.
Also, read How to Increase Platelet Count Fast in Dengue?
When should a person receive a platelet transfusion?
The indication for platelet transfusion has no set limit, it depends on the patient’s blood values. Platelet transfusions may be necessary for the elderly and those with other chronic diseases. Doctors mostly request a variety of tests to confirm the diagnosis, including an IgG and IgM antibody test, a PCR test to look for the virus, and a full blood count.
Read also, What are the warning signs of dengue?
The Bottom Line
There are three main reasons why platelets decrease in dengue fever. You must be aware of the symptoms of low platelet count and get immediate treatment to prevent further complications.
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FAQs
How many days do platelets decrease in dengue?
Platelets mostly fall by the fourth day of dengue fever in most people. The platelet drop is slight to moderate from the third to the seventh day of the fever and returns to normal value by the eighth or ninth day.
What is the last stage of dengue?
Dengue can get severe in one in every twenty persons. It can cause shock, internal hemorrhage, and even death in severe cases. If someone has already had dengue, they are more likely to get severe dengue.
What are the signs of recovery from dengue?
Some common signs of recovery from dengue are greater hunger, decreased fever, and higher platelet count. Some people also notice that their body pains are reduced.