What You Should Do If You Have Diabetes And Want To Donate Blood:
- Check with your physician ahead of time to ensure he/she agrees with your decision to donate based on your current management.
- Have well-managed glucose levels, if you have had a difficult time with management leading up to donation it is recommended to wait until levels are more stable
- Monitor BG heading into the donation blood with larger amounts of glucose does not store/keep well after donation
- Plan to bring a list of your medications outside of insulin/oral meds
- Plan to discuss other health conditions and medication used for treatment
- To prepare for donation:
- Be well hydrated with water
- Be well rested
Can You Donate Blood If You Are Diabetic
Diabetes, in simple terms, is a health condition when a person suffers from high blood sugar, because the pancreas do not produce sufficient insulin in the body. People who have a total lack of insulin are type 1 diabetes while people who cannot use insulin effectively are type 2 diabetes. It is generally safe for people with diabetes to donate blood under normal health conditions. People with diabetes can donate blood, as long as they maintain healthy blood sugar levels at the time of blood donation, according to Dr Sanjay Reddy, Consultant Diabetologist, Fortis Hospital at Cunningham Road, Bangalore. However, the ones who have used bovine insulin in the past are refrained from donating the blood due to the risk of mad cow disease. Apart from it, if a person has no complications caused by diabetes which has affected their eyes, blood vessels or kidneys, the person is eligible to donate blood. Here are common misconceptions about blood donation.Things a diabetes patient needs to take care of before donating blood:
- Make sure youve had enough sleep.
- Eat a healthy meal.
Things a diabetes patient needs to take care of after donating blood:
- Monitor your blood sugar level.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Include iron-rich foods or a supplement for 24 weeks following your donation.
- If you feel sick or are concerned about your health after the blood donation, contact your doctor immediately.
For Patients With Type 1 Diabetes
Some patients with type 1 diabetes report higher blood sugar levels during the few days after donating blood. This could be related to hydration levels since becoming dehydrated can easily raise your blood sugar.
This means its extra important that you drink plenty of water after donating blood as a person with diabetes.
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Side Effects Of Donating Plasma
Donating plasma can have side effects that are typically minor, but if its your first time donating, you may wish to have a ride home, just in case. Bruising and nerve irritation are among the most common, usually around the injection site. It may have mild swelling, which can be treated with cold packs. Nerve irritation causes immediate, intense pain at the injection site and can cause shooting pain down the arm and into the hand. If this happens, alert the technician theyll immediately remove the needle. This should eliminate the stabbing pain, although some mild discomfort may remain for a day or two afterward.
More serious risks of donating plasma may be a drop in blood pressure, which can result in light-headedness or fainting. Some people experience this as a result of fear of needles or having blood drawn. Other possible side effects include sweating and paleness, weakness, sudden warmness, or nausea or vomiting. Dizziness and blurred or tunnel vision may also occur.
More serious risks of donating plasma may be a drop in blood pressure, which can result in light-headedness or fainting.
If a mild reaction occurs, the donation is typically paused, calcium may be given to you to eliminate these side effects of donating plasma. However, with a severe citrate reaction, the donation process is halted. You may need emergency attention.
Who Is Not Eligible To Donate Blood
- You need regular insulin treatment
- You required the treatment of insulin within the last 4 weeks
- You have suffered heart failure
- You are still under treatment or observation or a follow up for renal impairment
- You have had wounds or ulcers related to a loss of sensation
- You have had a blood vessel surgery or amputation
- You often feel giddy or faintish
It really does not matter what type of diabetes you have as long as you fall under the eligibility criteria to donate blood.
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Preparing For Blood Donation If You Have Diabetes
Before donating blood, you should try your best to:
- Strive to keep blood sugars in a normal range the day before/of donating
- Hydrate well by drinking plenty of water
- Get plenty of sleep the night before
- Do not perform intense exercise that same day, before or after donating
- Be sure to have eaten a normal snack or meal
- Be sure not to consume too much caffeine
- Be prepared to disclose any medications you are currently on
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol the day before/of donating
- Check your blood sugar frequently
- Take insulin as directed
- Avoid intense exercise for at least 24 hours
- Rest immediately if youre feeling dizzy
- Rest if feeling lightheaded
- Eat your normal snacks and meals
Donating Blood With Type 1 Diabetes
Editors Note: Get continuous updates about the coronavirus pandemic here.
According to the , every two seconds someone needs blood. We all know that donating blood is a worthy thing to do. But the donation of blood assumes a cooperative body and a donation system that will accept the blood running through your veins.
So what does that mean for those with T1D? Many are under the assumption that a diagnosis means they cant donate. Wrong. For the most part, giving blood is an option, but it does depend on the following:
- Where you live
- What type of insulin you are taking
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Does It Matter If You Have Type I Or Type Ii Diabetes
No, it doesn’t matter what type of diabetes you have. Whether you have type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, your ability to donate blood is usually the same. This is because your ability to donate blood will depend on whether you meet the eligibility requirements and have steady blood sugar levels, not the type of diabetes you have. Of course, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before you decide to donate.
Your Diabetes Should Be Under Controlled Before You Donate Blood
To donate blood with diabetes, your blood sugar needs to be in your target range. Your A1C should be less than 7%, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association. If your blood sugars and diabetes are not well controlled, you shouldnt donate blood.
Its up to you to let the Red Cross know. If you are unsure about the condition of your diabetes, discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. They will be able to help you decide if giving blood is a good idea, or if you should wait until your diabetes is better managed.
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Q2 Is It Healthy To Give Blood
Blood donation is a healthy process. The human body can replenish the blood donated in 4 to 8 weeks, while the blood plasma gets replenished within 48 hours. Donating blood helps in clearing the harmful iron deposits in the body, which helps in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. With blood replenishing by itself, the pancreas and liver can stay healthy too.
What Medications & Medical Conditions Disqualify You From Donating Blood
Some medical conditions may be disqualifications for donating blood or plasma. They include:
- People with diabetes who do not have controlled blood sugar from insulin or other medications
- Asthma, if it limits your activities or breathing
- Any condition that increases your risk of bleeding
- Any blood cancer or other cancer that is active or was treated in within the last year
- Certain treatments for Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
- Heart disease that is untreated or has caused symptoms in the last 6 months
- Hemochromatosis
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Am I Eligible To Donate Blood
Great question! Take our two-minute eligibility quiz to find out if you can donate blood. If you are determined to be eligible online, you will be able to book your first appointment. Final eligibility will be determined by our staff at our donation centres. Visit our donating blood page to learn more about how blood donation works.
All topics in Am I eligible?
IMPORTANT COVID-19 UPDATE:
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, it is important for all travellers to self-isolate, and refrain from blood donation, for 14 days after any travel outside of Canada as stated by public health authorities. For some travel, a longer deferral is already in place. See the Q & A section of our COVID-19 page for more information about COVID-19 and donor eligibility. If you are unsure of your own eligibility, please call 1 888 2 DONATE .
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Eligibility overview
To ensure the safety of both patients and donors, we have certain requirements donors must meet to be eligible to donate blood based on their donation type such as whole blood or platelets. Each type of donation is used for different medical treatments, and your blood type determines the best possible donation you can make.
Remember: if you do not meet the requirements today, there are many other ways to donate and get involved with Canadian Blood Services. Plus, you can always check in with us again to see if your eligibility has changed.
New to donating blood?
If you are considering donating blood for the first time you must be:
Q10 How Often Can I Donate Blood
Since the blood completely replenishes itself within 4 8 weeks, you can donate blood every 56 days. You are allowed to donate plasma every 28 days, up to 13 times a year, and platelets can be donated once every 7 days, up to 24 times a year. Red blood cells can only be donated 3 times a year, with a gap of 112 days in between.
Hence, the act of blood donation is not only noble and humane, but it can also help you live a healthier life by getting checked for diseases regularly. So, get an health insurance in advance, so that in case you are diagnosed with any illness, you can get the best treatment possible without draining your savings.
Disclaimer:The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.
This blog has been written by Diwaker Asthana Health Insurance industry experience of 20 yearsDiwaker Asthana recommends buying my:health Suraksha Insurance to get the benefit of a wide range of coverage that the plan offers. For some unique benefits like cashless home health care and in-patient treatment for mental illness, he believes this plan will benefit customers in the long run.
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Regardless Of Diabetes You Absolutely Cannot Donate If
- You are sick with a cold, flu, infection, etc.
- You have low iron levels
- Youve gotten a tattoo within the past year
- You weigh less than 110 pounds
- You are under 17 years old
- You have ever used recreational intravenous drugs or steroids
- Youve received a new piercing on your body within the past year
- You have cancer
- Youve given birth within the last 6 weeks
- Youre being treated for postpartum medical issues
- Youve received a blood transfusion within 1 year
- Youve undergone surgery recently
- You have HIV/Aids
Frequency And Other Considerations
According to FDA regulations, you can donate plasma up to twice per week but not 2 days in a row. The American Red Cross has different stipulations, stating you can donate plasma every 28 days, up to 13 times per year 15. Check with your donation center regarding its requirements about frequency of plasma donation 1. Plasma donations can occur more frequently than donations of whole blood because your body is able to replace plasma more quickly than blood cells.
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You Should Be In Good Overall Health Before You Donate Blood With Diabetes
Besides having your blood sugars in control, you should also have other conditions under control. For example, your blood pressure should be less than 180/100 mmHg to give blood, which is higher than 140/90 mmHg that is the recommended blood pressure for people with diabetes. Conversely, if your blood pressure is less than 90/50 mmHg, you wont be able to donate blood.
Besides diabetes, they will also ask you about other conditions, and medications which you may be taking. Diabetes medications generally wont keep you from giving blood in the US, but there is a Red Cross list of other medications that shouldnt be taken if you are donating blood, including blood thinners. The Red Cross representative will screen you for conditions and medications which may affect your ability to donate blood with diabetes and related health conditions.
Another thing to know is that if you plan to donate platelets, you should not take aspirin or blood thinners for several days prior to your donation. 1
Heart disease and donating blood
If you have heart complications from your diabetes, there are some things that you need to know. Heart disease will generally not stop you from donating blood if you have diabetes, but if it has been less than six months since you have had symptoms related to your heart disease, then you may not be able to donate.
Other factors that affect whether you can donate blood
How long does it take to donate blood?
How can I prepare for donating blood?
You Shouldnt Overdo It
While you can donate blood every 56 days, get permission from your doctor to donate blood on a regular basis before scheduling another appointment. If you have a cold or other minor illness on the day of donation, reschedule your appointment for a day you feel well.
Diabetic patients in general are more prone to illnesses due to poorer circulation and compromised immune systems, and donating blood when you are not well puts stress on your body and slows recovery rates. Talk to your doctor if you have a yeast infection or other common infection prone to diabetics prior to donating blood.
Donating blood for medical research helps promote medical advancements, and your donation could save lives. While you can donate blood when you have diabetes, take certain precautions before donating. Our specialists at Key Biologics , make your experience comfortable and informed. Talk to us about your blood donation options and the different ways we utilize donated blood, marrow, and cord blood for medical advancements today.
Dr. Scott is the Chief Medical Officer at Cellero. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology and Transfusion Medicine and has deep experience leading blood centers and biological services organizations. Dr. Scott grew Key Biologics into a leading supplier of biological products used by the cell and gene therapy industry worldwide. Learn more about Dr. Scott.
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New Guidelines For Blood Donors
Diabetes UK welcomes a change in blood service guidelines allowing some people with Type 2 diabetes to now donate blood if they wish to.
The governments advisory has concluded that blood donation is safe for people with diabetes who manage their condition by taking tablets and have no complications or other underlying medical conditions.
Your Overall Health Must Be Good
In order to donate blood, you must be in overall good health. Your weight needs to be at least 110 pounds, and you should have been on an insulin regimen if applicable for at least two weeks prior to donating blood. If your insulin dosages have been recently changed, wait two weeks to donate until your body has adjusted appropriately. This protects both your health and the health of the person who receives your donated blood.
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Ferritin Status And Hba1c
A total of 17 blood donors didnt show a significant reduction in HbA1c after whole blood donation . A possible explanation could be a low ferritin concentration due to the frequency of donation, resulting in a less effective erythropoiesis and as a consequence a reduced effect on HbA1c. In the Netherlands, male blood donors are allowed to donate whole blood up to 5 times a year, female blood donors up to 3 times a year. Some of these blood donors develop in time a low ferritin concentration, because of the frequency of donation, and subsequently a low hemoglobin concentration and arent allowed to donate blood for at least 3 months. When analyzing ferritin concentrations predonation versus the maximum reduction in HbA1c in non-diabetic blood donors a correlation between both parameters was observed .
Effect of ferritin concentration on maximum HbA1c reduction .
Q6 Why Should You Not Donate Blood
A person with low blood count or low blood pressure should refrain from donating blood. In case you have an infection or you are suffering from common cough and cold, you should not donate blood, as it may transfer the infection to the recipient of the blood. Also, In case you have recently been treated with antibiotics, you should not donate blood. If you are underweight, you should not donate blood as the risk of nausea or fainting is high. In case you had a body piercing or a tattoo done, you should not donate blood as the risk of transferring hepatitis infection is high.
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The Difference Between Blood And Plasma Donation
Whole blood has red blood cells and blood-clotting cells called platelets. These cells float in blood fluid called plasma. Plasma has proteins that help stop bleeding. During a plasma donation, blood is removed the same way as for whole blood. The donated blood is run through an automated blood separating device. This device takes the plasma but returns the cells to you.
Plasma is used to replace whole blood in an emergency situation where there is rapid blood loss. Plasma donation requirements are the same as whole blood requirements. The main difference between plasma donation requirements and whole blood donation are:
- Blood types AB positive or negative are preferred because this plasma can be given to anyone in an emergency situation.
- Plasma donation takes longer, about 1 hour and 15 minutes .
- You can donate plasma more frequently than whole blood because you do not need your body to make new red cells. You can donate every 28 days up to 13 times in a year.