Blood donations are at an all time low. You can help save a life by donating a pint of blood. Here are some helpful tips to know before you donate blood.
How does donating blood help?
It is estimated that each pint of blood donated can be used in about three life-saving operations. Hospitals are always in need of blood donations, so every contribution makes a huge difference!
How long does it take?
While the actual donation process isn’t very long, you should plan to be there for about an hour in order to fill out the necessary paperwork beforehand, and to give yourself some time to make sure you feel well after your donation.
How should I prepare?
Make sure you drink plenty of fluids beforehand. The Red Cross recommends drinking an extra 16 oz of water on the day of your donation. Eat a healthy meal before your donation, but try to avoid overly fatty foods.
Who can donate blood?
Most healthy adults can donate blood.
Regulations require that all donors weigh at least 110 pounds and not have symptoms of any infectious diseases (including the cold). Pregnant women and those who have given birth in the past two months should not donate.
You may also be deemed ineligible to donate blood if you have traveled to certain countries recently, have recently gotten a tattoo, or are taking certain medications. However, many common medications, including aspirin and birth control do not affect your eligibility.
Visit the Red Cross at www.redcross.org for more information on donating.
