Risks Associated with Blood Donation
Overall, the process of blood donation is considered safe. Typically, there is minimal risk of contracting a blood-borne infection, thanks to the utilization of sterile, single-use equipment for each donor. It’s important to note that healthy adults can generally donate approximately half a liter of blood without jeopardizing their health. The body can replenish lost fluids within a few days post-donation, while red blood cell levels are usually restored after about two weeks.
Pain and Bruising
Some individuals may experience discomfort at the injection site post-donation. Occasionally, mild swelling or slight bruising may occur, which is a normal physiological response due to blood pooling under the skin. Typically, these bruises will resolve on their own within a week. To alleviate these side effects, it’s recommended to apply cold compresses four times a day for 20 minutes during the first two days following the donation. After that, warm compresses can be applied in a similar manner. Using compresses can generally help reduce injection-related pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol, may also be taken to manage discomfort, provided a healthcare professional has been consulted. It is crucial to seek medical advice if severe pain persists or abnormalities are noted.
Dizziness, Nausea, and Fatigue
Some donors may experience symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, or nausea after donating blood, typically due to a temporary drop in blood pressure. In such cases, it is advisable to sit down and lower the head between the knees, so it’s positioned lower than the heart. Lying down with legs elevated can also help prevent fainting. Additionally, staying hydrated with adequate fluid intake during the first 24-48 hours after donation is essential. Should symptoms not improve, contacting a healthcare provider is recommended.
Physical Weakness
Post-donation, donors may feel physical weakness, especially in the arm where the needle was inserted. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from engaging in strenuous activities or sports for 24 hours following the donation.
Continued Bleeding
After the blood donation is complete, the needle is removed from the vein, and a bandage is applied. Donors are instructed to keep the bandage in place for at least 4-5 hours to ensure that bleeding stops. The purpose of the bandage and the pressure it exerts at the injection site is to halt blood flow from the vein. However, in some instances, bleeding may persist even after the bandage has been left in place for several hours. In such cases, applying pressure on the injection site and raising the arm above heart level for 3-5 minutes can help. If bleeding continues, it is essential to consult a doctor.
Requirements for Blood Donation
There are specific prerequisites and criteria that individuals must meet to be eligible for blood donation, along with certain conditions that may disqualify them from donating.
- The donor must generally be in good health.
- There should be no fever during the past four weeks.
- Hemoglobin levels should be at least 13 grams per deciliter for males and 12.5 grams per deciliter for females.
- There must not be any symptoms indicative of an infection, such as cough, diarrhea, runny nose, or sore throat, for at least one week prior to donation.
- The donor must weigh no less than 45 kilograms.
- The individual should not have taken any medications or herbal supplements, or undergone traditional treatments at least three days before donating blood. If antibiotics were used, it is advisable to wait a minimum of one week before donating.
Instances that prevent a person from donating blood include:
- Pregnancy.
- Recent tattooing.
- Having certain types of hepatitis.
- HIV infection (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), which causes AIDS.
- Undergoing a blood transfusion recently.
- Traveling to areas with a high risk of malaria recently.
When to Consult a Doctor
It is critical to contact a physician or the blood donation center in the following situations:
- If diagnosed with COVID-19 within 48 hours after donation.
- If symptoms indicating illness, such as fever, arise within a few days following blood donation.