|
Giving Blood...
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.
[ ]
Want to answer more questions in the Health & Fitness category?
Maybe give some free advice about: Health?
That's great that you plan on giving blood! Well, I just gave blood for the first time in October, and it wasn't too bad. I didn't pass out, but I did get kind of sick. You won't see any of the blood, they cover up the sack and tube, and I'm sure that the medical people will take your phobia into account if you just tell them about it. All they do is put a needle in your arm and ask you to squeeze a stress ball for a few minutes. Then they take the blood away and you rest for a while. After that, they'll have you drink and eat to get your blood sugar back up again.
]
I gave blood when I was in high school. I also passed out.
The reason you're supposed to eat foods high in iron is so that your iron count is high enough that they can use your blood.
The reason I passed out is because I went to sleep. They'll tell you to stay sitting up and keep your eyes open. Trust me, if you close them, you're out like a light. I don't know if you've ever passed out before, but it's not pleasant. When I came to, I threw up (in front of one of the cutest guys in my class).
However, they are equipped to deal with things like that, and they'll have you feeling better in no time.
It's really not bad at all, and definitely a worthwhile cause.
]
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.
]
More Questions: |