health matters | giving life
Why Donate Blood ?
This simple , safe gift is often underestimated — and in short supply
Our health care system relies upon a continuously replenished reserve of blood in order to operate .
It shouldn ’ t be so hard to meet that requirement . After all , almost everyone over the age of 17 is eligible to give blood .
HUGE BENEFITS
Yet doctors and nurses often struggle with huge deficits as too few donate because they misunderstand the need or the process . Others are simply unaware of how important this life-giving donation can be .
Here ’ s a look at why it ’ s no important , and how you can get involved .
HOW IT WORKS
Like any other charitable donation , there are feelings of community and goodwill associated with giving blood . But there ’ s more to it – much more – as your blood bolsters the sick and injured through health care emergencies and surgery . At the same time , there may be a health benefit for you , too . Donors are given a quick health check before giving blood , and there may be important health care indicators found in the results . They check pulse and blood pressure , body temperature and hemoglobins . If your numbers are off , that could be an early sign that there are issues of your own to discuss with a doctor . Either way , you ’ ll potentially be saving a life .
First , you must be in good health . Other basic requirements for donation include age restrictions , which can depend on the state . You ’ ll also have to weigh a certain amount . You may only donate once every 56 days , and up to six times per year . There is no upper age limit , so long as you ’ re well and there are no limitation on your activities . If you ’ re on antibiotics , they ’ ll evaluate to determine if it ’ s a bacterial infection since that could be transmitted by blood . Diabetics may donate , but there are certain restrictions for other health issues , including some cancers and HIV .
BEFORE YOU GO
The American Red Cross recommends that donors eat a light meal , and drink plenty of fluids before giving blood . Bring a driver ’ s license or other forms of identification , and the names of any medications you are currently on . Wear a short-sleeved shirt or one with sleeves that can be comfortably rolled up . If you ’ re feeling apprehensive , or are worried about your ability to drive after giving , bring a friend along for support . They ’ ll likely have a light snack and water , but bring your own if you ’ d like . hm
20 Health Matters • Spring 2023