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Plasma Donation
Hello Dr. Yesterday I donated blood plasma, (I do it probably 5-6 times per month for past 6 months) The donation went fine and the blood cells were returned. When the saline solution started, my arm started to swell and it was very painful so the tech turned off the machine and got the nurse. I was told that I had "infiltrated" which was described to me as a buldge in my vein. At this point I became very disoriented, dizzy, started to sweat, and came very close to throwing up. I sat with an ice pack on the back of my neck for about 15 min. before I could drink some fluids. Eventually I felt well enough to walk. My question is what happened? I had the impressin from the way the nurses and techs were acting that it was a very serious situation, but that no one wanted to tell me. Today my arm is still very sore and my stomach still feels upset. Should I go see my Dr.? Should I stop donating? Thanks for any help you can offer, Jake
Answer:
Plasma Donation
Sounds like you almost fainted. When donating plasma I'm sure they have told you about rest, drinking plenty of fluids before and a light meal after. I hope you are drinking enough. Try to drink more, I would cut back donating alittle and replenish myself. Regain your strength. If you still don't feel up to parr be seen for a check up.
Purple98Lady :smile:
Answer:
Plasma Donation
Yes, I am sure I would have fainted if I had not been lying down. My question is why? I had alot of liquids before I donated (1/2 gal of lemonaide the night before, two glasses of water and a large bottle of gateraide in the morning) so I don't think I was dehydrated. I had eaten about an hour before i donated. My blood preasure was normal for me at 107/77. My weight was within 2 lbs of 190, which is my normal weight. I felt fine, maybe even a little more energetic then normal. I just do not understand how a buldge in my vein could make me feel so bad. Even today, 4 days since I had donated, I feel drained. My arm is still very sore, which I can understand. I was hoping that a doctor could explain to me what happened better then what they told me at the donation center. It just felt like they were being evasive. Thanks for any help you might give. Jake
Answer:
Plasma Donation
Maybe you should be seen by your Dr. regarding as now you mention a buldge in your vein or the site of entry. Do you have a fever?? Have your arm looked at where the placed the needle. I don't think your arm should be giving you this much trouble unless your vein blew. Get checked to be sure.
Purple98Lady
Answer:
Plasma Donation
What are you talking about? I mentioned a buldge in the vein in the first posting. Am I posting in the wrong place? I thought my question would be answered by a doctor.