Pancytopenia
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
There are several things you can do to help prevent infection and bleeding. You can also balance your activity with rest to prevent extreme tiredness.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call 911 for any of the following:
- You cannot be woken.
- You have a seizure.
- You have trouble breathing.
- You cannot stop the bleeding from a wound even after you hold firm pressure for 10 minutes.
Seek care immediately if:
- You have a fever or chills.
- You feel dizzy or you faint.
- You have blood in your bowel movements or urine.
- Your heart is beating faster than usual.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have a rash or red or purple dots on your skin.
- You feel more tired than usual.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Medicines may be given to treat the cause of pancytopenia.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Balance activity with rest:
Do activities when your energy levels are the highest. Know your limits and do not plan too many activities for one day. Rest when you need to.
Prevent or control bleeding:
- Do not take aspirin or NSAIDs. These medicines can cause you to bleed and bruise more easily.
- Use caution with skin and mouth care. Use a soft washcloth and a soft toothbrush. This can keep your skin and gums from bleeding. Keep your nails trimmed to prevent scratches. If you shave, use an electric shaver.
- Apply firm, steady pressure to stop bleeding from a wound. Apply pressure with a clean gauze or towel for 5 to 10 minutes. Call 911 if bleeding becomes heavy or does not stop.
- Do not play contact sports or do activities that can cause bleeding. Ask your healthcare provider what activities are safe for you to do.
Prevent infection:
- Wash your hands often. Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available.
- Stay away from crowds and anyone who may be sick. Ask your healthcare provider if you need to wear a mask in public places.
- Eat a low-bacteria diet as directed. This will help decrease your risk for an infection. Choose, prepare, and cook foods that contain a low amount of bacteria. Examples include pasteurized milk, well-cooked meats, and cooked pasta. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about a low-bacteria diet.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
You will need to return for blood tests frequently. You may also need regular blood transfusions. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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