There have been unregulated animal studies that show minor levels of increase in platelets. But the drop in dengue cases can be sudden and massive and the patient may need immediate platelet transfusion in such cases to prevent complications, says Rashi Tantia, HOD, Dietetics,
Papaya fruit and its juice are often recommended as a natural remedy to boost platelet counts
For long, there has been a belief that consuming papaya juice and giloy (tinospora cordifolia) can significantly increase platelet count in the body, particularly during cases of low platelet count associated with dengue fever or other illnesses. However, this belief is more of a myth than a reality. So why does this claim lack scientific evidence?
What does low platelet count mean?
Platelets are small cell fragments in the blood that play a crucial role in clotting and preventing excessive bleeding. When a person’s platelet count drops below normal levels, it can lead to a condition called thrombocytopenia, characterised by an increased risk of bleeding. It is important to address the underlying cause of thrombocytopenia and provide appropriate medical treatment. A normal platelet count ranges between 1,50,000 and 4,50,000 platelets per microlitre of blood. In dengue fever, the platelet count may drop significantly, sometimes falling below 1,00,000 or even 50,000 platelets per microlitre of blood. The drop in platelet count, if caused by dengue, is temporary and reversible, and lasts till the infection is present in your body. In cases of dengue, patients experience severe symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, nausea, body ache, and skin rash during the first four days. The platelet starts dropping on day three and four, with a significant drop on the fourth, fifth and sixth day. Levels start building up from the seventh day onward once the infection subsides. But if the drop is severe, then a transfusion is a life-saver.
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