Can Smoking Or Tegretol Reduce The Platelet Counts?

Hello, You are on your prescription medicine Tegretol since childhood as you have history of epilepsy. You are also a smoker. You had your platelets count falling. After stopping both your platelet count showed increase. It is very nice to know that you can control your smoking habit. You are suggested to quit smoking gradually. Smoking is not a healthy practice. Women are more sensitive to smoking than men, platelets in male smokers are less sensitive to smoking, a research study showed no significant changes in the parameters. Thrombocytopenia (abnormally low levels of platelets) is found among people who take Tegretol. You should talk to your treating doctor. If needed your doctor will monitor or reduce the dose or stop the medicine if required and replace it with a medicine that suits you better. Stay away from addictions (smoking, drugs, caffeine, alcohol, etc.) if any. Avoid stress. Take food that help to control epilepsy naturally like food rich in vitamin B6, vitamin E and magnesium. You can also take supplements. Balanced home made food with appropriate amount of protein, low carbs, veggies and berries helps to control epilepsy. Walking, stretch exercises and staying active may help. Acupuncture and chiropractic treatments are also considered alternatives to conventional epilepsy treatment. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician