Platelets are blood cells that help blood clot. A normal count is roughly 1.5 to 4.5 lakh per microlitre. A low count (thrombocytopenia) usually shows up on a blood test, often during a fever.

Common causes

• Dengue and other viral fevers, the most common cause in Delhi NCR after the monsoon
• Some medicines
• Liver disease
• Low vitamin B12 or folate
• Immune conditions such as ITP, where the body destroys its own platelets

Go to a hospital immediately if

• there is bleeding from the gums or nose, or blood in urine, stool or vomit
• red or purple spots appear on the skin
• there is severe stomach pain, constant vomiting or drowsiness
• the count is falling fast or is below the level your doctor has told you is safe

In dengue, the risky phase often starts when the fever comes down, around day 3 to 7. Keep getting the blood tests your doctor advises, drink plenty of fluids, and don't take painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin unless a doctor prescribes them.

Where homeopathy fits

A low platelet count needs a diagnosis first, and a serious drop needs hospital care. Dr Amit Kumar sees patients for recovery after viral fevers, and for long-standing mildly low counts once the cause has been checked, always alongside the tests and care your physician advises.

Dr Amit Kumar (BHMS, Delhi Homoeopathic Board Reg. No. 2350) has practised in Sector 4, Vaishali, Ghaziabad since 1994. The clinic is at B-3, Basement, Mini Reliance Plaza, near Sarvodaya Hospital, open Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 1 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM. A consultation costs ₹500.

See clinic timings and book a consultation