I am a 69 yo female with no known underlying conditions.
Almost 3 years ago I had a routine blood panel done and my platelets were around 1,600. A bone marrow biopsy was done along with genetic testing and they could find no reason for the high count. My doc prescribed hydroxyurea 500mg 1x per day. Through the first 2 years the doc increased my dose to 2 per day for 4 days and 1 per day for 3 days. This seemed to do the trick with lowering my platelets to just in the 400- 500 range with my other blood count varying slightly. I’ve had very few, if any, side effects. About 6 months ago my platelet count rose again to almost 700. I’m now on 2x 500mgs 7 days per week. My most recent blood work showed my platelets down to 358 (yeah!) and my RBC at 2.96 (lower than the low normal of 3.6) and my monocyte % is 11% (higher than the normal range of 8%). My neutrophils are also outside of the normal range at 49%. I’m still lucky to have few symptoms. I did express my concern for the white blood cell differential readings. I am going to decrease my weekly dosage by 2 500mg capsules per week (going from 14 to 12 capsules per week).
I guess my question is, has anyone been on hydroxyurea long term and had increases in platelet count after some time?
Also, I’m seeing significant hair loss. Anyone else and, if so, anything one can do about it?
I’ve also been experiencing leg cramps and swelling in my ankles. I walk, on average, 3 miles per day and also exercise. Anyone else have either/both of these complaints?
I’m so glad I found this group!
Good health to everyone.