10 Myths About Donating Blood

Blood is the stuff of life and has always been surrounded by an aura of mystery. It has been thought to contain life force, emotions, and bad blood was once thought to be the source of all illness. These days donating blood is still surrounded by many modern myths. Here are some of those myths to help you separate fact from fiction.

There Are Strict Rules For Who Can Donate

You have to be in good health, at least 17 years old in most places, and at least 110 pounds to give blood. You also cannot have given blood in the eight weeks prior to any donation. In good health means that you can perform normal activities and any medical conditions are controlled. There are rules but most people even with some health problems can donate.

Giving Blood Takes A Lot Of Time

Actually, it takes about an hour. This includes paperwork and starts from the time you walk in. It really does not take that long.

You Will Feel Weak After Giving Blood

Most people do not feel weak after giving blood. It is set up to be a comfortable process. You get juice and snacks to help you refuel. Most people do not feel weak even though everyone remembers their one friend who felt that way and told everyone they knew.

Blood Given Is Blood Lost

This is just is not true. After you give blood your body will usually replenish your stores in 48 hours or so. The usual blood donation is under 7% of your total blood volume which is not much.

You Could Catch Something If You Give Blood

Supplies in reputable blood donation facilities are all sterilized. The chance that you would catch anything giving blood is virtually nonexistent. The procedures for blood donation were created to protect you.

Giving Blood Will Affect Your Blood Pressure

Donating blood will not affect your blood pressure. You blood pressure will go up a little if you are nervous about donating blood, but that is the result of anxiety. It is not from giving blood.

You Will Lose Or Get Low On Red Blood Cells

Even if you donate regularly then this will not happen. You have to wait eight weeks between donations and this frequency does not cause a loss of red blood cells. Just follow the required eight week waiting period between donations and your red blood cell count will not be adversely affected by your donations.

It Will Hurt

It will not hurt. There will be a pinch when the needle is applied, but this only lasts for a matter of seconds. A quick pinch is worth it to give blood that could save a life.

If You Take Medications Then You Cannot Donate Blood

This is simply not true. In fact, many people on blood pressure medications can give blood. The same is usually true for individuals with diabetes.

You Are Too Old

You are never too old if you are in general good health and meet the basic requirements.

These myths about donating blood are often believed but are not true. Share them with friends who may have been hesitant about giving blood. Donating blood is an easy way to help those in need.

Tom Rheinecker writes about how to apply to online ultrasound technician schools.