Donating blood through a blood drive is a great way to give back to humanity, especially at a time like this when the COVID-19 outbreak is stressing healthcare organizations to their limit. When giving blood, your first thought is usually about those who will receive it, but it's important to keep yourself and your own needs in mind, too. To that end, here are some ways to make your blood donation a more pleasant experience.
1. Get hydrated.
Remember that removing blood from your body is removing liquid from your body. After your donation, your body will need fluids to rebuild all the plasma that was taken away. It will have an easier time doing this if you are hydrated. So, in the day leading up to your donation, increase your water intake moderately. You don't have to down gallons of water; that could be dangerous in its own way. Do, however, sip a few extra glasses throughout the day.
2. Eat a healthy meal a couple of hours beforehand.
A couple of hours before you are scheduled to donate, sit down to eat a healthy, balanced meal. Don't eat anything too high in fat or sugar. A sandwich and an apple, or a bowl of pasta with a vegetable-based sauce are good choices. Eating prior to donation will help keep your blood sugar levels stable, reducing your chances of feeling lightheaded.
3. Leave yourself plenty of time.
If you are stressed out and rushed before or after your donation appointment, you are more likely to feel side effects like lightheartedness. Schedule your donation appointment at a time that will allow you to simply relax and breathe deeply for at least a half hour before, and at least a half hour after you give blood. If you have donated before and know it makes you feel weak, try to schedule your donation towards the end of the day so you can just go home and relax afterwards.
4. Bring something to focus on.
It only takes between 10 and 20 minutes of being hooked up to the blood collection machines for you to donate a pint of blood. However, this time can really drag on, and your anxiety can really build, if you do not have anything to distract yourself with. Download a podcast you've been waiting to listen to, or bring a good book to read. The less you think about the fact that you're actually donating blood, the better.
If you follow the tips above, you should have an easier, more enjoyable time donating blood.
