What are the risks of Blood Donation?

Blood donation is a very safe, aseptic procedure, done in a well-controlled environment by professional medical and paramedical personnel. The procedure lasts about an hour. Most people between the age 18 and 65 years old and in good health condition are able to donate 350-450 ml of blood. Although considered to be a relatively safe procedure, it still carries with it a few risks.

The risks of blood donation:

• Hypotension - this may cause donors to feel faint, lightheaded or dizzy. To avoid such situation donors should be fresh after eight-hour sleep, eat a well-balanced meal and drink plenty of fluids before donating blood.
• Weakness – physical exertion after 24 hours of donation is contraindicated. Donors are also encouraged to avoid alcohol for a few days.
• Venipuncture site injury – pain and bruising of the venipuncture site may develop. Application of firm pressure for about five minutes after removal of the needle should prevent bruising.
• Hypocalcaemia – the symptoms of this deficit include tingling in the lips, spasms in hands and feet or generalized convulsions. This can be prevented by providing calcium supplements to the donor.
• Improper sterilization of equipment may increase risk of infection.
• Increase risk for iron deficiency anemia may develop. This side effect can be minimized by taking supplemental iron.

It is essential to have in mind that blood is an important resource though limited and can be used to save lives of people.