Blood Donation: Why And Who Should Do It

There is an ever increased demand for blood in hospitals. It’s unfortunate, many people die because of loss of blood and its non-availability. There are multiple reasons as to why people don’t donate blood much often and one of them is they are hesitant. But the real fact is blood donation can save someone’s life. Picture this! With your contribution, you can save a dying soul. Here are some of the perennial purposes donated blood serves:

Replace lost blood during accidents, injuries and major surgical operations.
Help patients survive with blood disorders such as hemophilia.
Help patients requiring blood transfusions in order to increase their hemoglobin levels.
Help severely burnt patients receive plasma that can prove to be crucial for their survival.
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Basic Conditions For Blood Donors

A blood donor must meet certain health requirements:

You should be at least 18 years of age and not less than 60 years.
Have a healthy hemoglobin count of not less than 12.5 g/dl.
You must be weighing more than 45 kgs.
Should have normal body temperature, blood pressure and be free from any disease at the time of donation.
Should not have consumed any kind of medicine in the last 48 hours.
Should not have suffered jaundice in the preceding three years.
People Not Eligible For Blood Donation

The following kinds of individuals should not donate their blood:

Individuals who are on hormonal supplements, steroids or undergoing certain medication.
Pregnant or lactating women.
People with more than one sexual partner or drug addicts.
Persons who have suffered from typhoid, malaria or jaundice.
Persons who have undergone surgery in the last 48 hours.
Women should avoid donating blood during their monthly cycle.
Persons with a history of heart problems, kidney issues, liver problems should not donate blood.
People suffering from HIV, Hepatitis Syphilis etc.
Common Myths Regarding Blood Donation

You will not feel lethargic after donating blood unless you consume proper food and liquids.
You can resume normal day-to-day work after donating blood, but you are asked to refrain from weight lifting for 12 hours.
Donating blood will not leave you blood craved.
You will not get AIDS after donating blood.
Important Guidelines On Blood Donation

Have a good, healthy meal 3 hours before donating blood.
Accept food after blood donation. It is suggested to have a good meal later on.
Avoid smoking on the day of blood donation. One can smoke only after 3 hours of donation.
Besides saving someone’s life, blood donation also serves another purpose. As you donate blood, the impurities in it get washed away and the body prepares itself to make new Red Blood Cells. When this happens, you feel fresh and rejuvenated. You will also notice a glow on your skin. Generally, you can donate blood once in every three months.