Do not take any medicine, including over-the-counter drugs, without your doctor’s approval. It is very important to avoid aspirin and other drugs that contain aspirin. If you are not sure about a medicine, ask your doctor.
Use a soft-bristle tooth brush. Do not use dental floss.
Do not have dental work without your doctor’s approval. If you must have dental work, tell your dentist that you have a low platelet count.
Do not do heavy lifting, contact sports, or strenuous exercise.
Do not walk in bare feet.
If you feel weak and unsteady, have someone help you when walking.
Avoid cutting your nails. Use an emery board to care for your nails.
When shaving, do not use a razor blade. Use an electric razor instead.
Be careful when using household tools, such as knives and scissors.
If you get a cut, place a clean cloth or a piece of gauze over the cut, then apply pressure for a few minutes. If your cut continues to bleed, lie down and stay calm. Keep applying pressure. If possible, use an ice pack to apply pressure. Get emergency care for any of the following:
A large loss of blood
Bleeding that continues after 10 minutes of pressure
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Do not bend over with your head lower than your shoulders. Bend from the knees, and keep your head up.
Do not blow your nose forcefully.
If you get a nose bleed, sit upright. Tilt forward to allow the blood to drip out. Then apply firm pressure to your nostrils, below the bridge of your nose. Get emergency care for any of the following:
Bleeding that gets worse after 10 minutes
Bleeding that does not stop completely after 30 minutes
Do not wear tight clothing.
Do not use alcohol.
Prevent constipation. Drink plenty of fluids, and get enough fiber in your meals.
Do not strain to move your bowels. Tell your doctor if you are constipated. He or she may prescribe a stool softener.
Do not use rectal suppositories, enemas, or vaginal douches.
If you are a woman having your period, do not use tampons. Use pads instead. If you have menstrual flow that is heavier or lasts longer than usual, tell your doctor or nurse.
Keep the phone numbers of your doctor and the local EMS (emergency medical service) at hand.