• Do not wear retainers or dentures that do not fit well. Take your dentures off for
least 8 hours each day.
• Use gauze soaked in salt water to clean your teeth if your platelets are below
20,000. Rub gently around your gums.
Nose and Breathing Care
• Use a cool mist humidifier in dry air, especially in the winter.
• Use soft tissues to gently blow your nose.
• If you have a nosebleed, sit up and pinch your nose to apply pressure.
Stomach Care
• Drink plenty of liquids, eat healthy meals and exercise to avoid constipation.
• Avoid foods that upset your stomach. Tell your doctor if you are having
problems with nausea.
• Do not use enemas, suppositories or a rectal thermometer.
• Do not strain when having a bowel movement.
Call your doctor if you have:
• A red rash
• Unexplained bruises or bruises that get bigger
• Bleeding that does not stop
• Bleeding gums
• A nose bleed that lasts longer than 10 minutes
• A cough with blood
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds or with blood in it
• Constipation, dark or tarry stools, or blood in your stool
Call your doctor right away if you have:
• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Confusion
• Loss of coordination or muscle strength
• Loss of feeling in hands or feet
Talk to your doctor or nurse if you have any questions or concerns.
9/2006. Developed through a partnership of The Ohio State University Medical Center, Mount Carmel Health and
OhioHealth, Columbus, Ohio. Available for use as a public service without copyright restrictions at
www.healthinfotranslations.com.