camarochix72 (author) from USA on January 03, 2018: Depending on how busy the lab is that they use, assuming your center is like the one I went to and they send samples to an outside lab, it could take a few weeks. However when it comes to donating plasma, caffeine consumption could have a major impact on the entire process. Why do I have to wait so long and how can I ensure my right arm veins are good for next time? After having my surgery, I was told that I could go back to donating after I was no longer taking any of the prescribed medications. 216 views, 42 likes, 11 loves, 323 comments, 40 shares, Facebook Watch Videos from Queen's Corner: What will we encounter today? Everything went black and I passed out. Read on for instructions. 1. vein is not straight in the arm? However, a sharp, strong pain may be an indication that the vein being used for your donation has blown or broken open. The lack if red blood cells, that carry oxygen through your body, can pose a host of issues if you try to donate before the time required. All the noodles I find listed "Reduced Iron" in the ingredients. And be sure to eat your iron-rich foods! My second or third donation during that time the phlebotomist blew my vein in my left arm. This is very common in people who havent eaten well enough before their scheduled donation. I had a similar issue several times, mine was sharp pain that started in the elbow and radiated to the shoulder. Question: If I have a burn on my arm from work, will they deny my plasma donation? While giving up your personal time is commendable, you want to be as healthy as possible before donating plasma, so youre able to donate and then carry on with your daily activities.Find out in this article how breakfast is an important meal and what sorts of food would be best . One 3 oz. I've donated plasma about 9 times now and the last few times i've felt a tightness in my chest after donating like my heart is straining or something. Have the phlebotomist adjust the needle position and the return rate. Having results that don't quite match up, isn't all that uncommon. The saline lately makes me feel sick at the end when returning cycle. Here's another reason to eat the rainbow: vitamin C is important for non-heme (plant-based) iron absorption. camarochix72 (author) from USA on August 29, 2017: So sorry you're having this much trouble donating. Vibrating or Tickling in the Arm During Donation. camarochix72 (author) from USA on January 08, 2015: I never had an issue with my protein while I donated, however, I did have a problem with my hematocrit (iron) levels. Whole grains are a good choice for breakfast or lunch before donating blood plasma. You tryna be tricky? DON'T: Fatty snacks and treats prior to your donation. Question: Does wiggling your feet help with donating plasma? If pregnant or nursing, consult with a qualified provider on an individual basis. Women are also more prone to having lower numbers for both, depending on where they are within their "cycle". I hope they will let you do the same, I know how long and frustrating a slow donation can be. Citrus fruits. What to Eat After Donating Plasma. The Morning of Your Donation Preparing for your blood donation boils down to taking good care of yourself. Overview Donating blood is a relatively safe way to help people with serious medical conditions. camarochix72 (author) from USA on October 25, 2016: I also started having issues with slower donation time in one arm after they blew a vein. I've been having a few issues though - nothing major. Usually adjusting one of these will help. The center didn't have an issue with it; it's more about what works best for the donor. I have been back to donating for almost a year now with a break of just over a year. It can also help ensure that your body has enough energy for the process, enabling you to donate more frequently. What do you think? What to Eat for Breakfast Before Donating Blood. As you can imagine I have very bad scar tissue. I've been deferred for 8 weeks at my usual plasma place because of a machine malfunction. What is that? Deferred once for low protein, hadn't really eaten much the night before, or day of, so ok. No problems since, really. Question: For someone who lifts weights, is donating plasma bad for recovery? Chickpeas are often enjoyed as the main ingredient in hummus. In some cases too much caffeine before donating plasma can even cause donors severe dizziness during their donation due to low blood pressure brought about by dehydration and constricted veins caused by vasoconstriction; So keep in mind moderation is key! camarochix72 (author) from USA on September 27, 2017: It could be caused by the build-up of scar tissue restricting the flow within the vein. From then on I constantly have used my right arm. Adding more fruits, vegetables and white grains are a good substitute: bananas, grapes, apples, squash, sprouts, kale, carrots, white bread, white bagels and refined cereals. It always stops after a minute or so, and the rest of the donation is fine. During the time I had to let me right arm heal due to a blown vein, I was able to use my left arm for both donations each week. Here are six different foods you can eat to boost your health as a blood donor. Instead, try eating more fruits (bananas, grapes, apples, pears, peaches, pineapples ) and vegetables (celery, carrots, sprouts, kale, collards, squash, cucumbers, tomatoes and all forms of lettuce, but avoid broccoli, baby spinach and cauliflower because they are higher in protein). camarochix72 (author) from USA on March 31, 2015: Vein occlusion is a narrowing or blocking of the vein. I was unable to get any info out of anybody before ibleft as to what that meant in concerns to future donations. Simply put, a sample of your bodys tissue will be taken for tests and close examination. The center I went to explained to me that usually when this happens, the speed of the machine needs to be adjusted. Overall, eating a high-protein meal before donating Plasma can really benefit your hepalth and provide additional energizing elements necessary for going through this noble act! Your blood's hemoglobin level is tested before every donation. When Dieting Is the Norm, What Does "Normal" Eating Even Look Like. Or do they have separate plasma donation center for TV's? I've been donating plasma for 2 years, and they say they use it for medications. I finally just started donating with the good arm every time. Eat Protein and Iron-Rich Food - Eat protein-rich, iron-rich meals at least 3 hours before donating plasma. I hava a question? For 2 years I donated plasma consistently. The outtake is greeat at 120. Chickpeas are a great plant-based source of iron. Eating bell peppers can help you reach your daily vitamin C value. Also, take a 81 MG aspirin a few hours before donating to help with blood flow. When this happens, there is less plasma (the liquid part of your blood) that can be extracted during each donation cycle. Drink plenty of water and fluids prior to your appointment. Too much sugar or fruit can make you feel tired during or after the procedure by spiking your insulin levels too high or creating an overload of nutrients within your system. Watch out for whole grain and whole wheat, though, these options are higher in protein. I've been donating plasma for 5 months and suddenly my protein level is too low. undressed.I am not sure I could donate plasma again, I never want to experience that again. Donating plasma can lead to lower protein levels and, as mentioned . It also contains some electrolytes, iron and potassium which are necessary for our health. Caffeine is a widely used stimulant that can be found in coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate among other items. The nurse hit a nerve that runs along the muscle in my arm, and caused a great deal of pain. At your local blood donor center, of course! Blood plasma is the clear liquid part of . If it's too low, you won't be able to donate that day. Half way through my cycle i stated to get symptoms of food poisoning. However, if your red blood cell loss is more than the max allowed, it will be considered more of a blood donation, and you will be deferred long enough for your body to regenerate those lost blood cells. In the 5 years that Ive been donating plasma, this has happened to me one time. Eating oats before you donate will help keep your energy levels up and steady during the process and make sure you have the strength to make it through without feeling faint or lightheaded. camarochix72 (author) from USA on July 14, 2017: High protein levels can be lowered by lessening the amount of high protein foods you eat: all meats (beef, chicken, turkey and ham), egg yolks and whole grains (oat bran, wheat bran, oatmeal, all forms of rice and barley). Nuts and seeds Every time I have been deferred for protein the staff just tells me to eat a good diet, and when I get deferred for hematocrit they tell me to keep hydrated. camarochix72 (author) from USA on June 01, 2017: Your height and weight are very similar to mine, and donating twice a week is absolutely safe. review the instructions on preparing for a plasma donation; drink extra water; get plenty of rest kind foods that are high in iron; eat breakfast before coming in to donate; bring snacks with you while donating when possible; avoid strenuous activities days prior to donation and comply with all guidelines given by the collecting facility staff including fasting pre-donation if appropriate on your first donation day. So, youve heard it since grade school dont forget to drink your water! I've had that happen as well. For the second time I used my left arm and it takes forever. Ive actually had times when Ive had to pull the gauze bandage off very slowly to prevent the newly formed scab from being pulled off with the bandage. I was able to donate a very similar amount as you in 32 minutes on average, start to finish. I average around 70 ml per cycle and I usually donate 690 ml. I used my right arm three times with no issues b4 the needle removal pain started. The type of protein you're eating may have a higher fat content; fatty burger or other fatty cuts of meat. Drink plenty of fluids, rest for at least 15 minutes following the collection process and look out for signs of dehydration over the next few hours post-donation such as dizziness or fatigue. Once they adjusted the collection rate, it went away. Your choice of dishes includes: Advertising Policy Meats. Try oatmeal, barley, and brown rice. At home today I am 145 lbs. However, a daily vitamin won't replace a healthy diet. I have been donating since mid July of this yr. What is RPR and if its that big of a deal why have they let me donate for 4 months? Donating blood is a great way to do that. This combo for lunch or dinner the night before my donation always did the trick. You're also encouraged to sit for at least 10 to 15 minutes. I was just told I would be deferred for not realizing that a dr taking a small piece of my lip off for a byopsy was considered a procedure. Here are some helpful hints that Ive learned during my 5 years as a plasma donor. Tell what not to eat so that I pass the urinal test? Hello I've donated plasma before. Things To Avoid Before Blood Donation: Avoid Blood Donation If You Are Not Feeling Well: There could be numerous reasons for not feeling well. Donating blood is stressful for your body, which is why it needs protein to regenerate cells and tissues. Sugary foods and beverages, along with alcohol, will help your body absorb iron, so limiting these is good. Tom Lohr from Magdalena, NM on October 17, 2017: I tried donating this week. Not only are they rich in iron, but they're also a great source of fiber and other minerals. People who smoke regularly are also at risk of having high hematocrit levels. After a few years of donating, I had one arm that was a lot faster than the other, so I used it exclusively for a long time. As an able-bodied, healthy person, I believe its my duty to give back to those in need. Stay Hydrated Drink 6 to 8 cups of water or juice the day before you donate plasma and the day of your donation. A lump began forming, a hematoma, I began feeling sick. If you're having problems with low hematocrit or protein numbers, you can read the article I wrote about this particular problem. Before you donate plasma Stay Hydrated - Drink 6 to 8 cups of water or juice the day before you donate plasma and the day of your donation. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. It takes more time, is less pleasant than donating red blood, so they make up for it by paying you money. In conclusion it is advisable not indulge yourself with sweets right before donating blood but if you find yourself craving some extra energy boost - have a cookie about two hours prior may still provide some solid advantages depending on how carefully monitored your state of mind and nutrition status has been kept over time prior going through with this noble gesture! The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. But, since salmon is a more oily fish, if you eat it before your donation, it may cloud your plasma, making it less desirable. If no one else says it thank you. Why does this happen? The goal here is to start replacing your . Help! Had flow issues that they couldn't figure out and before i made it to my first return cycle they said they were ending me and returning my cells and sending me on my way. I've actually had a needle "catch" on the scar tissue on the way out, and it wasn't pleasant. Typically healthy adults can donate twice per week with up 48 hours between donations but cannot give more than 24 times within a twelve month period (365 consecutive days). If youre noticing that your donation time seems to be considerably longer than others around you, it may be due to dehydration. The best way I had of bringing up my numbers was a Snickers Protein bar and a cran/apple juice with 110% vitamin C. This combo is loaded with both protein and iron, with necessary vitamin C to help with the absorption of both. This is why you are only able to donate whole blood every 8 weeks. The machine started beeping that my return pressure was high. "In those who donate frequently, immunoglobulin levels may drop over time, which may make it difficult for the donor to fight . Giving you information on the hematoma is pretty standard. Please consider donating plasma again! I've recently become a bachelor again. The center where I donated did this for all new donors and all current donors on a yearly basis, it was the same process for everyone. Most sources of protein, especially meats, contain an ample amount of iron. I've had times when I had to ask to NOT have certain phlebotomists do my stick because they always had issues and their struggles were just too painful on my end. Drinking caffeinated beverages; coffee/soda/tea, before your donation will cause your plasma to be thicker because of this lack of fluid, and therefore, making your donation take longer, and in some cases, more painful. I used to go in and my heart rate would always be too high and I would always have to either get it rechecked or had to come back until one day one of the phlebotomists told me to close my eyes as they were checking it. The aim here should be eating something nutritious enough to balance out any loss in nutrient supply but not so filling that they would have trouble while sitting through lengthy session at the Plasma Center. 3. needle is too close to ''shut off'' valve in the vein? They were very helpful to my questions. Can anyone tell me why it takes so much longer in my left arm? cups of water before my donation, is too much water bad? For the rest of the day after donating blood, it is generally a good idea to avoid any activities that get the heart rate up. I barely made a fourth of my total donation before they sent me on. Its whatever test it is that they do during the blood draws. Most centers will do a variety of additional tests on the samples they collect, but it's random. If you weren't "permanently deferred", you should be able to donate again. Lifting the day of your donation, before you donate and the day after are perfectly ok, just not right after. Yesterday was my 6th time and the only time I had a scary experience. I began donating plasma last month, twice per week. Rarely (once every other donation or so) I will feel a sharp pain in my upper arm and armpit region along with the sudden stop of the draw. I had high pressure on my machine and it took forever to finish in addition. You are a blessing! But at each passing second, I was crashing as I needed the red blood cells and saline. My vein had collapsed, blocking the blood flow. I've found that the second day is a little more difficult to keep levels high enough because of the natural depletion from your first donation. camarochix72 (author) from USA on March 05, 2018: I have experienced it, and I know how painful it is. My donation times are quick, so any interference with my donation speed is minimal. camarochix72 (author) from USA on May 07, 2018: The best way I know of lowering your heart rate is to practice a meditation-like breathing. I've only been donatig about 8 or 9 months. No one until you has ever mentioned iron or vitamin C as being factors let alone offered advice for how to increase my levels. Her finger stick that day was good tho. Is this a low protein issue or something else? Since I started doing that Ive only had to be checked once when it used to be a pretty much every visit thing. Donated my first two times last week. Answer: Plasma becomes cloudy when the amount of fat you've eaten is too high. They checked my blood pressure three times after, it kept dropping, I left the facility and it was 74/40. Eating protein before donating plasma will help you maintain a healthy blood sugar level and prevent dizziness during or after donation. Fats that emerge in your blood for many hours after consuming fatty meals may influence infection tests done on all donated blood. Additionally since caffeine causes dehydration by promoting urine production, excessive intake prior to donating plasma will also cause vasoconstriction - essentially reducing circulation volume which again makes placement of needles difficult as well as reducing donation yields significantly due the lower amount of total fluids being moved through your body overall. If you're considering donating plasma, the first thing. This indicates that orange juice could prove to be beneficial prior to donating plasma as these essential nutrients help your body with the donation process while providing important energy sources as well as helping regulate organ systems. Question: Does too much protein make your plasma cloudy? A rule of thumb (that I learned from my Dr when I was pregnant), "if you must drink a soda, make sure you drink the same amount of water in the same day". I cant donate again until i get a call saying i am cleared. This means youll have to sit through more cycles in order to extract the pre-determined amount of plasma. Apples also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that help keep you healthy and energizedincluding vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. This means eating a light snack within two hours of your donation and drinking plenty of water. Eating a ripe banana prior to donation provides an adequate amount of energy to sustain you through the donation process. A high-fat diet can cause lipemia, which French fries, pizza, chips, candy, ice cream, and soda are high in sodium and should not be consumed on donation day. Then the pain us probably caused by something else. What does no flow really mean or so did they mess up my vein. I tried to before but they couldn't find a good vein. HubPages is a registered trademark of The Arena Platform, Inc. Other product and company names shown may be trademarks of their respective owners. The negative correlation between the frequency of plasma donations and protein levels suggests that our bodies can't immediately replace the lost protein. The new one would probably need verification that you're no longer donating at the old center, double-dipping if you will, before you can start. Why would that be a procedure that would harm my plasma?! On the other hand, if you're talking about other injectables, such as drugs; absolutely not. I was told by the phlebotomist that it was because of the scar tissue from donating on a regular basis and blowing the vein. Question: How do I speed up blood flow while donating? Eat a well-balanced meal high in protein and iron to replenish nutrient stores after donation. I've learned that a lot of the time, if there is pain during the donation, other than the initial stick, either the needle is resting against the wall of the vein, or the machine return needs to be adjusted. Slow deep breath in for a count of 5-8 seconds, then slow breath out for 8-10 seconds. camarochix72 (author) from USA on December 31, 2014: Most of the time, in my experience, the return speed is set too high on the machine itself. Should I only do it before non-lifting days? If your puncture site does start to bleed, either you didnt leave the bandage on long enough, or the puncture hole has been re-opened. Generally, donors are compensated for their time. Donate today but didn't get all my blood back I'm dizzy and having hot flashes. Answer: I believe there is a way to do it. The SPE test all of the different types of proteins levels that are found in your plasma. That's not to say you can't enjoy a greasy burger with some fries and a milkshake, just don't do it the day of your donation(or even the day before it you tend to eat those types of meals more often). It can also be common for those whose hematocrit levels just meet the minimum requirements. Because of that, I wasn't able to donate that day. She called someone else, and the RN over and they argued over what to do. I don't know why all these people are telling you no because yes donating plasma burns 450-640 calories depending on how much you donate. Additionally, eggs are a good source of protein, which is essential for helping the body rebuild red blood cells. I iced the area and that seemed to help with he pain, but the swelling took quite a while to go down. If youve donated blood, its the same idea. However, I have had the same thing happen to me. They can also increase satiety helping you feel fuller longer while still allowing room for other snacks or meals leading up to donation day! Lots of tasty varieties can be found in stores, or you can make your own!. Related Read: Where to buy banana blossom? Eat A Good Meal: Experts advise that you should never donate blood on an empty stomach. My issue is HIGH iron. My left arm works, A-1however the three times we tried my right arm the procdure has to be stopped. To me, and I'm by no means a doctor, the dehydration sounds like a stretch, something else could be in play. camarochix72 (author) from USA on October 15, 2018: If your protein level is high enough, it would have to be low hematocrit (iron) levels. Answer: If your heart rate is elevated because you're nervous about the donation process, practice some breathing exercises to help calm you down. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is a must for . The answer to the question, Is it acceptable to eat cookies before donating plasma? is a complicated one. I really appreciate all your effort to educate us donors, but I wish someone would educate the centers and their staff that they could eliminate a lot of problems by just passing out this type of information to all new donors because it's actually true that when people know better, they do better. I'll try super hydrating but if they have the same problem I will likely give up. She suggested that I start drinking Powerade or Gatorade at least 48 hours before donating blood, as the salt in those drinks can help expand small veins like mine. camarochix72 (author) from USA on June 20, 2015: Why don't the plasma donation centers themselves offer the same wealth of information that you have provided on your "Tips and Tricks" page and your "Hematocrit and Protein" page when donors first sign up with a center? Want to donate blood during a disaster, or just in general? As for the amount of water you're drinking; the more, the better. Do you know why this happens? Question: How many times a month can I give plasma? On occasion, it would take over an hour because of issues similar to what you describe. I saw mines and everyone else's was the same (reddish hue color) but this one girl's was light greenish or brownish. Hi, I just started donating last week. CGAA will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. But is orange juice an appropriate pre-donation meal for those looking to donate? Did you eat a McDonalds cheeseburger before you went in for your donation? camarochix72 (author) from USA on October 09, 2014: It sounds like the rate of collection by the machine itself needs to be adjusted. When i donate plasma the first one goes ok but the second one my protein level is to low what is going on and what do i need to do so they are not low. If youve ever experienced this, you know exactly what Im talking about. Related Read: How to make banana pancakes? All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. By eating a healthy meal beforehand, you can ensure that you have the energy to give blood and help others in need. Fatty foods to avoid include but are not limited to: Sweets/candy Burgers Potato chips However, it is important to eat just one banana before donating. This happens when the needle is resting on the side of your vein (on the inside). If youve been told that your plasma is cloudy it could be because youre eating foods that are fatty. 2. If you experience any pain in your arm during your donation, let the Phlebotomist know immediately.
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