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Managing the Side Effects of Chemotherapy

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Excessive bruising or bleeding

Excessive bruising or bleeding are common side effects of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy drugs can deplete your blood platelets and lead to a condition known as thrombocytopenia. Platelets are produced in the bone marrow, and help to stop bleeding and form a clot on a wound. Some symptoms of a low blood platelet count include easy or excessive bruising or bleeding occasionally seen on the skin, known as petechiae. Petechiae are small, bright red spots that can occur on the lower legs and other parts of the body, and can occur spontaneously when the platelets are very low. Your doctor will perform blood tests to monitor your platelet count.

Tell your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Easy or excessive bruising
Unexpected bleeding
Black or bloody stool
Brown or red urine
  • Easy or excessive bruising
  • Unexpected bleeding
  • Bleeding from the nose and gums
  • Tiny red or purple spots on the skin
  • Black or bloody stool
  • Prolonged bleeding from cuts
  • Brown or red urine
  • Unusually heavy menstrual flows
Here are some precautions to avoid bruising or bleeding while on chemotherapy:
Avoid taking aspirin or any NSAID
Use a soft toothbrush and avoid flossing.
Use an electric shaver
Take care not to burn or cut yourself
  • Avoid taking aspirin or any NSAID (non-steroid, anti-inflammatory) drugs such as ibuprofen, as these drugs may interfere with normal platelet function.
  • Use a soft toothbrush and avoid flossing.
  • Use an electric shaver.
  • If your platelets are low, avoid rubbing or blowing your nose.
  • Take care not to burn or cut yourself.
  • Wear proper protective wear as necessary to minimize bodily injury.
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