In cancer patients, the blood counts are closely monitored because low blood counts can cause serious health issues.
Causes of low blood count in cancer patients
Low blood count due to cancer is a result of –
Chemotherapy
Certain kind of chemotherapy has a damaging effect on bone marrow. This causes low blood count.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy on large bones damages the bone marrow. As a result
Blood cancer and bone marrow cancer
Such cancers occur in the bone marrow and hinder the development of normal blood count.
While undergoing cancer treatment, the following blood count is monitored at frequent intervals.
1.White blood cells
White blood cells (neutropenia) act like soldiers. A low level of white blood cells makes a body vulnerable to various infections.
Symptoms of the low count of white blood cells (WBCs)
Risk of a low count of WBC in cancer patients
Ways to manage low WBC count
2.Red blood cells
A low count of red blood cells indicates a low level of hemoglobin and a lesser supply of oxygen to the body parts. This causes fatigue and weakness.
Symptoms of a low count of red blood cells (RBCs)
Risk of a low count of RBC in cancer patient
Anemia is the major risk factor of a low count of red blood cells.
Ways to manage low RBC count in cancer patients
Management of anemia depends upon the underlying cause. Some of the ways to manage anemia are –
3.Platelets
Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) indicated the inability of the blood to clot.
Symptoms of low platelet count
Risk of low platelet count in cancer patients
Excessive bleeding is one of the major risks of low platelet count.
Consult your healthcare provider to know the effect of low blood count. The seriousness or type of problem depends upon the affected blood cells. Your healthcare provider will help you understand the side effects of low blood and count and what to expect.
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