When my DD gave blood today, she almost passed out...

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GloBug

Guest
She said she got nauseaus, saw spots before her eyes, and was just about to pass out when she suddenly yelled SOMETHINGS WRONG! They pulled the needle out of her arm and told her that since she always almost passes out when she donates, she shouldn't donate any more.

She's 19 yrs old, 140 lbs. and her BP was 95/56. They knew what her BP was when they stuck the needle in, but that seems really low to me. Her iron was tested before the donation, and it was obviously fine.

So why does she keep passing out when she donates? And what does this mean in the event of surgery or an accident?

I told her to contact her doctor and she said she would, but you know teens....
 
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cycofan

Guest
I have that problem, too, Glo. They give me a can of Pepsi before they start and put an ice pack behind my neck. My blood pressure is also low, and my iron is usually very close to the cut off. She also needs to be sure she eats before she donates - I mean as close to right before as she can. When we do drives at work, I schedule at 12:00....have lunch at 11:15, and head in. I've not had any real problem in some time, save for the rookie poker who missed my vein last time! :)
 
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Calgon1

Guest
*sigh* I used to donate on a regular basis. But, ever since the prostate cancer, I'm untouchable. Well, just a couple more years to go on the moratorium.
 
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GloBug

Guest
Thanks Cycofan. Good suggestions.

Calgon, I don't think prostate will be a problem for her! LOL!
 
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elliottsmama

Guest
Tell her Thanks! Elliott will be needing an awful lot of blood in the coming months.
 
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GloBug

Guest
Sara says that when she first sat down, she told them that she passes out when she donates, so they put an ice pack on her forehead and on her chest just below the neck. After she started passing out, she got one for the back of the neck. Guess she should have gotten that one first!
 
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Whimsy

Guest
Glo, I have the same problem.

I tried being a blood donor over 25 years ago but always got ill, just like your daughter. I too, have low pressure. After many times of the same thing happening a nurse from the Red Cross told me not to donate anymore, according to her I was going into a form of shock.

Last year I had to have surgery and wanted to donate a pint of my own blood. I thought with extra weight and such maybe I would have no problems. The same thing happened again. I had to attend a meeting after that episode and everyone noticed I looked pretty bad.

I think some people just can't give blood and I am one of them. I sure wish I could as it is something that would help others. I would gladly do it on a regular basis if I could.
 
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S&M in Pgh

Guest
Is her BP that low normally? The low BP is probably why she felt that way.

Since I am O neg, they call me all the time. But because of all the knee operations I have been unable to donate for the last 2 years and now that I actually have someone else's bone and cartilage in me, I am unable to donate anymore.

Mike
 
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Cruise cutie

Guest
I am in the same ball park...really low BP.. I run about 88/50..and my pulse just sitting aound about 60-68...... and border on anemia..they love my B+ as only 8 out 100 have that blood type.. but it's a no go..:(...Bless all who can give...Joanne
 
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