Or what to do if you find the critters? It only takes 20 minutes to help someone in urgent need, but not everyone is actually eligible to be a blood donor. But donations are also used daily for surgery patients, accident victims, organ transplant recipients and burn patients — young … The primary reason is to prevent transferring the hepatitis virus. Here are five reasons you may not be allowed to give blood. En español | The American Red Cross is trying to encourage more Americans to donate blood. If you let the nurses know you are scared of needles, they can make sure they help you give blood comfortably. Or that women can have different heart attack symptoms? Giving blood and platelets is essential to the NHS and vulnerable patients. Tattoos were cited as the reason at the time, as people aren’t allowed to donate blood if they’ve had tattoo. Seven out of ten Americans snore to some degree. 5. Honey is sweeter than sugar so you may need less of it, making the calorie difference a wash. Our expert discusses the health benefits and health risks of various cheeses, Strong joints keep you active, which can help you maintain your health as you age. Most often, people who are free of relapse a year after completion of treatment are able to donate blood. To help clear up any misconceptions, we’ve rounded up the top five reasons why you think you can’t donate blood, and why they don’t actually rule you out. Individuals having a chronically low BP run the risk … One of my friends was scared of needles and still donated. It is not in your best interest to have your anesthesiologist place an epidural through an area that is infected. You can learn more about commonly asked blood donation questions. If you find you're unable to donate please remember to re-arrange any affected appointments. If you have a fever or a productive cough, or generally feel unwell on the day of donation, you should wait and come back when you feel better. Giving blood afterwards. Peircings from hygienic establishments do not require a waiting period. Acne and psoriasis meds: If you take acitretin ( Soriatane) or isotretinoin ( Accutane ), as examples, you can’t donate. Can't give blood. It is the liquid portion of the blood. Read our latest advice for blood donors Photo Courtesy of Pixabay. 5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Donating Blood Can't think of a reason not to. These individuals are advised to be evaluated by a health worker at the collection center. Antibiotics. Packed red blood cell transfusions are given to increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of the patient’s blood. Think about it: The whole process only takes about an hour. Blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma and Hodgkin's disease disqualify you from donating, to protect both donor and recipient. The need is great. More information on eligibility to donate: Detailed eligibility criteria to find out whether you are eligible to donate blood. Donating blood doesn’t cost a dime. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), nearly 5 million Americans receive blood transfusions each year. Plasma is a vital part of your circulatory system. Antibiotics. They cover the most common reasons that stop people donating when they go along to give blood. There is a mother sitting in an ICU right now, praying that her child will make it through the night. Dairy products can be healthy; however, overconsumption may pose health risks. Donors need to weigh at least 110 pounds and be in generally good health. If you let the nurses know you are scared of needles, they can make sure they help you give blood comfortably. Click here for more information around Personal Identification. Age. 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