The amount of blood which you donate is only about one-tenth of your total, and will be replaced in 72 hours without any effect to your immune system. Nevertheless, it's good to know some tips which might reduce any possible discomfort.
- Eat a well-balanced meal 3-4 hours before blood donation.
Do not come in with an empty stomach, you are more likely to feel faint after the donation. - Drink more fluid than usual on the day you donate blood (at least 8 glasses)
- Rest in the donor chair for 10 minutes after the donation is completed until after the nurse puts a plaster over the needle site.
Keep the plaster on the arm for 4-6 hours. - Rest in the donor refreshment lounge for at least another 10 minutes and take some refreshment.
- Should you feel unwell or experience any discomfort, inform the staff immediately.
- Do not smoke for the first hour.
- Avoid consuming alcohol until you have eaten.
- It is ok to resume normal activities but its best to postpone strenuous or athletic activities to the next day.
- To prevent bruising and promote healing at the needle site, avoid heavy lifting or carrying for 12 hours.
- For the next 72 hours after the blood donation, be sure to have adequate fluid intake. It takes about 3 days to completely restore the blood volume.
- Take the iron pills (given after you donate blood) once every day for 2 weeks or eat iron rich food.
