Feeling Ill after giving blood

[milly143]

I gave my 5th blood donation last night and shortly afterwards I came over horribly dizzy, felt nauseous and was all clammy. That lasted for about half an hour and I had a fuzzy head for the rest of the night. I've never had any sort of problem with previous donations before so is there a reason I would have this time?

They did have trouble getting the vein. The nurse said it was really deep and had to move it around quite a lot once the need was in. Could it have been something to do with that?

[Sqad]

Might have done, but no big deal, as it is not an uncommon side effect of donating blood.

[milly143]

No, I wasn't worried about it and am fine today. It just seemed odd as I've not experienced it any other time.

[woofgang]

have you been drinking enough? sounds like you might have been a bit dehydrated if the nurse had trouble finding the vein.

[milly143]

Yeah, I drank loads yesterday. They've had to turn me away a couple of times because they couldn't find veins so I always make sure I drink lots of water troughout the day but it doesn't seem to have much effect for me.

[TheOtherHalf]

Im coming up to my 50th pint shortly. I have also sometimes experienced dizziness afterwards and have had to lay down with my feet up. Feel stupid sometimes. Dont know why it happens ( I think its about 3 times in all those years ). I always make sure Ive eaten and had a drink beforehand. They even now make sure everybody has at least one big glass of water whilst waiting to be seen. Dont let it put you off.

[pa___ul3]

might have been low blood sugar, I get a bit woozy around lunch time if I haven't had breakfast and walk a bit, usually alright after a mars bar, so when I gave blood I kept that in mind.

[milly143]

Wow! 50th donation! That's great, you'll be getting your crystal plate soon. :o)

I won't let it put me off, it's only one evening of feeling a bit ropey and it meant I got a cup of tea made for me at home and didn't have to wash up so it was worth it.

I worked out last night that I will be about 60 by the time I reach 100 donations. Seems a long way away.

[gingejbee]

I know you are given a biscuit and a drink AFTER donating, but I was recommended to have, at least, a light meal and drink BEFORE going to give blood (this by the attending doctor).

[ummmm]

I've only did it once...must be due for donation number two soon. Can't believe I went 37 years not knowing what blood group I was.....can't believe I've forgotten what blood group I am already :-)

[milly143]

You get a little keyring after your second donation Ummmm. It has your blood type on it.

I'm a+ ......common as muck :)

[milly143]

I didn't know the thing about eating before hand. I might give that a try next time.

[ummmm]

I'm B something. They did send me a card after my first...with a 'you are infection free' letter...

[milly143]

I was terrified of getting a letter saying they had discovered some horryfying disease and I would self distruct within 24 hours.

[ummmm]

Lol...I was a bit nervous. I imagined it saying 'sorry but your blood is not good enough'

[netibiza]

I always feel dizzy after giving blood, so have only done it twice (second time for family member) I am O - so can give to almost anyone!

[carlton23]

I would, on behalf of others, like myself, like to give my most heartfelt thanks to all you wonderful donors, who give willingly your life's blood to save people you have never or ever likely to meet, THANK-YOU, ALL SO MUCH.

[anneasquith]

i agree carlton. how are you today ?

[nightmare]

Surely, the choccy biccies they give you afterwards are incentive enough.....?

I must admit, I have not donated for a couple of years. I must start again soon.
Blood group O+ - pretty useful.

[carlton23]

A lot better thanks annesquith