DONATING BLOOD
W. G. Franklin, M.D.
Donating blood is a wonderful community service. Studies indicate that it reduces the risk of heart attack by 85% (see discussion of iron).
Call the Red Cross at 1-800-GIVE-LIFE to learn the location of your local center, to schedule an appointment, and to ask about the rules. There are restrictions due to weight, blood count (hematocrit), medications, illnesses (past and present) and recent travel. It takes approximately 45 minutes to donate.
The blood pressure is lower after donating blood so drinking fluid before and afterwards (for several days) is important. Ask your physician if you should hold (omit) your blood pressure medicine on the day you donate.
If you are a difficult stick, ask when the best phlebotomist is available and schedule your appointment then.
Consider giving blood at least 3 times per year. It might be easier to remember to be patriotic and donate around Memorial Day, July 4th, and Veterans Day, times when we are thinking of the needs of our men and women in the military and the debt we own them and those who preceded them. One is actually permitted to donate blood every 56 days.
Some hospital blood donor centers have more extended hours and more liberal rules. Check with your local hospital regarding their needs and rules.
Consider participating with blood donor drives at your church, synagogue, or mosque. Consider organizing regular drives every 3 months at work.
Check with your physician about any contra-indications to blood donations that you may have.