I'm not perfect, and I don't pretend to be. But that doesn't mean I can't help.
Gender: Male
Location: Margate, Kent, UK
Occupation: Gap Year Student
Age: 18
Member Since: August 20, 2006
Answers: 33
Last Update: October 27, 2008
Visitors: 3520
Favorite Columnists
thelaura
Mackenzie
mrbrodie
|
| |
I plan on giving blood at my school on December 14th. I've never given blood (I only just turned 17, the age required to give). They told us to eat foods with iron and to drink lots of water so we don't pass out. I have a few phobias and two of those include needles/shots and seeing blood. I already know that if I don't pay attention to what is going on I won't be affected mentally by it, but I'm worried physically. I don't want to pass out or get sick or anything like that, so I was wondering, for those who have given blood or have worked in a setting of the such (health experts, etc.) what are some good foods to eat, beverages, anything to keep me from getting dizzy/sick, passing out, etc.
Also, if I were to pass out from it, how long would I be out? Just a few seconds? I guess it's not that big of a deal, I'm going to do it no matter what, I was just wondering.
I'd rather you not answer this if you haven't given blood before or if you're not somehow medically aware. I'm not going to get upset or something if you aren't aware - I'd just feel more comfortable with someone more experienced with this. (link)
|
In my experience, the food you eat won't make great difference. I'm sure someone with more medical knowlegde would argue otherwise, but I have given blood on a full stomach, and an empty one.
I think most of the problems you will face come from your own anxieties. Eat enough so that you are confortable, if you don't want too see the needle of the blood, then don't look at it.
I will tell you this aswell, the pain is noting too worry about. The pain you do experience, is strange... You are told too squeeze and release your hand every few seconds, and so yes, while giving blood does hurt, YOU are in complete CONTROL of it, so just don't worry about it is my advice too you.
|
|