Importance of Blood Donation: 5 Key Things to Consider

Did you know about 12,000 people in India1, die because of the non-availability of blood? This happens because there is absolutely no substitute for human blood. Patients often suffer because they do not have access to safe blood transfusions. Donating blood is very important as it ensures that the needy person has access to safe blood in case of a medical emergency. You can save up to three lives by making a single blood donation of 1 pint. According to the World Health Organisation, every year, nearly 117.4 million blood donations are collected globally. 

The gift of blood is said to be the biggest gift you can give. This noble gesture by you can help in saving numerous individuals who are in need. Nevertheless, knowing a list of things contributes to safe donation is essential. This article will shed lights on some of the important aspects of blood donation. Keep reading.

Key Factors to Ensure Safe Blood Donation

Safe blood is vital for treatment and emergency intervention. It can help an individual suffering from dangerous ailments and also supports various surgical procedures. To stress the need and importance of blood donation, World Blood Donor Day is celebrated every year on 14 June. The purpose of this day is to make people aware of the need for safe blood and to express gratitude to blood donors. 

Thankfully, every healthy individual can donate blood. However, you should fulfil some basic requirements that are assessed with an initial screening process.  

Who can Donate Blood? 

The average human body has 4-6 litres of blood. Hence, a healthy person has enough blood that he/she can donate. However, there are certain conditions for blood donation. Only people who are healthy with required haemoglobin and platelets, between the ages of 18 and 65 years, and the ones who weigh at least 45 kgs are permitted to donate blood.

Who cannot Donate Blood?

An individual suffering from the following medical condition is not allowed to donate blood:

• Blood cancer
• Diabetes
• Coronary heart disease 
• AIDS, Hepatitis B or C
• Fever

How is Blood Donation Performed?

Blood donation is performed in a seated position and is done under the supervision of an experienced healthcare professional. 

What to do Before Donating Blood? 

The blood donor has to be quite careful throughout the donation procedure. Before going for blood donation, be sure to keep the following things in mind:

1. Eat Proper Meals: It is advisable to eat a healthy meal and stay hydrated before going for a blood donation to avoid weakness. Do not eat fatty foods before donating blood, as it can reverse the blood test report. Make sure to eat iron-rich food as it helps in increasing haemoglobin.
2. Carry Your Medical Prescription: It is essential to take note of prescribed medicines. A medicine taken for a particular medical condition can hold the blood donation process. The medical practitioner will take note of your medical history and will examine your weight, blood pressure, and level of haemoglobin accordingly.
3. Ensure Safe Donation: Follow preventive measures like wearing mask, maintaining social distance and keep cleaning your hands etc. to ensure safe donation.
4. Get Enough Sleep: Sleeping well the night before blood donation is important. It keeps your health in good condition and gives your body the needed strength to gain back the lost energy.
5. Monitor Your Health: Before donating blood, make sure to check your vitals, body temperature, fitness etc. You shouldn’t feel nausea or fatigue during the entire process. 
6. No Intoxicants: Remember, it is advisable to stay away from consuming alcohol or any intoxicant a day before blood donation. 
7. Know the Guidelines: A day before donating blood, make sure to read the doctor’s instructions and guidelines about the same. It will help you stay updated and do it the right way.
8. Carry Your ID card: When you are leaving for a blood donation, make sure you have your identity card or the blood donor card with you.
9. Be Honest: Donating blood is a matter of huge responsibility. Hence, you must be completely honest to your doctor about existing disease or health history if any.

Blood Donation: The Post Donation Advice

Once you are done with the righteous job of blood donation, you must take care of a few things:

1. Wait: Once you are done with donating blood, do not stand up suddenly. Wait there at least for 3-5 minutes, and then move slowly. 
2. A Balanced Diet is Must: For the next day or two, try to ensure a healthy and balanced meal. A good diet is a must every day especially after you have donated blood to bring back the lost energy.
3. Avoid Tempting Beverages: Aerated drinks and beverages can upset your health or stomach right after you have donated blood. You may avoid it for a day or two. 
4. Keep Your Arm at Ease: If you have donated blood from your arm, make sure to keep it comfortable for the next few hours. Any strain on the arm can cause pain. Avoid lifting weights or wearing clothes that are too tight. 
5. Avoid Smoking and Drinking: Smoking and drinking alcohol must be avoided for at least 24 hours after you have donated blood.
6. Drink Enough Fluid: Ensure to drink enough fluid to keep yourself hydrated and maintain the fluid levels.
7. Take Proper Rest: Be sure to take adequate rest and avoid rigorous exercises. Follow the instructions as given by the medical practitioner after blood donation. It also includes covering your arm with a bandage for some hours.

Final Word

If you are wondering why is blood donation important, let us answer it. 

Donating blood is healthy as it allows your body to renew the blood within a few weeks. It also helps in clearing the iron deposits in the body, which reduces the risk of heart ailments. It also helps you to improve your quality of life. These are some of the benefits of donating blood. Also, the blood donation activity is a noble act. All of us should be eager to help those in need whenever we can. 

Apart from these, blood donation also helps you get a basic health check-up done. So, it also ensures your safety. In case you are diagnosed with any disease, you may seek treatment soon.

Not to forget, medical inflation rate is at an all-time high, you may invest in a health insurance plan to protect your savings. It acts as a financial cushion that helps you in times of health crises.

Care Health Insurance offers various comprehensive health insurance policies that are affordable. All you need to do is visit our official website and choose the one that suits your requirements.

Disclaimers: 

The above information is for reference purposes only: Policy Assurance and Claims at the underwriter's discretion.

All plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.