What are the causes of blood donation reactions?

Nov 14, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
Generally speaking, possible causes of blood donation reactions include excessive mental tension, donating blood on an empty stomach, extreme fatigue, difficult blood collection, and physical discomfort. 1. Excessive mental tension is the main cause of blood donation reactions, especially among first-time donors. Most of them have a fear of needles, lack sufficient knowledge about the physiology of blood donation, and have psychological concerns, leading to anxiety.

Generally speaking, possible causes of blood donation reactions include excessive mental stress, donating blood on an empty stomach, extreme fatigue, difficult blood collection, and physical discomfort. Specific details are as follows:

1. Excessive mental stress: This is a primary cause of blood donation reactions, especially among first-time donors. Most individuals feel fear toward the needle puncture and lack sufficient knowledge about the physiology of blood donation, leading to psychological concerns and heightened anxiety.

2. Donating on an empty stomach: Giving blood without eating may lead to hypoglycemia, which can trigger a blood donation reaction.

3. Extreme fatigue: When donors are overly tired or have had poor sleep the night before, they may experience lethargy, dizziness, or symptoms resembling anemia after donation.

4. Difficult blood collection: Problems during blood draw—such as difficulty accessing veins—can increase anxiety and subsequently provoke a donation reaction.

5. Physical discomfort: Donating blood after experiencing motion sickness may result in fainting during or after donation. In fact, this is often a continuation of motion sickness symptoms, with blood donation acting as a trigger. It is recommended to drink warm water, eat some food, take a walk outdoors, and breathe fresh air until symptoms subside before proceeding with donation.

If a donor experiences a severe reaction, prompt medical attention is advised to prevent delays in treatment.


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