Plasma donation is a process where the liquid portion of blood, known as plasma, is collected. Plasma contains proteins, antibodies, and clotting factors used to treat conditions like severe burns, immune deficiencies, and bleeding disorders. Millions of donations occur safely each year, providing treatments to patients worldwide. However, like any medical procedure, plasma donation has potential side effects, ranging from common, mild reactions to less frequent but more serious concerns.
Common Reactions
Donors may experience mild and temporary reactions during or shortly after the donation process. Lightheadedness or dizziness is a frequent occurrence, arising from a temporary drop in blood pressure or blood volume. This sensation usually resolves quickly with rest and rehydration.
Fatigue is another common after-effect. This is attributed to the body’s adjustment to fluid shifts and plasma component replacement. The fatigue typically subsides within a day or two.
Bruising or discomfort at the needle insertion site is common, resulting from minor bleeding under the skin after the needle punctures a blood vessel. Applying pressure to the site immediately after donation helps minimize the formation of a bruise, which usually fades within a week. Some donors might also report a metallic taste or tingling, particularly around the lips or fingertips. This is often a mild reaction to citrate, an anticoagulant that temporarily binds with calcium in the blood, causing a slight, transient calcium imbalance.
Less Frequent But More Serious Reactions
While most reactions are mild, some less common side effects can occur. A more pronounced citrate reaction can lead to significant tingling, muscle cramps, or tremors. This occurs when citrate temporarily lowers calcium levels more substantially. Such symptoms require immediate attention from the donation center staff to manage the calcium imbalance.
Nerve irritation or damage is a rare complication, typically resulting from improper needle placement. This can manifest as persistent numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the arm or hand. If a nerve is irritated, symptoms may last for weeks or months.
Hematoma formation is a larger collection of blood outside the blood vessels at the donation site. This can occur if the vein is punctured through or if insufficient pressure is applied after the needle is removed, leading to more significant swelling, pain, and discoloration than a typical bruise. Infection at the donation site is a risk if sterile techniques are compromised, allowing bacteria to enter. Signs of infection include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or fever, and these symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation.
Minimizing Risks and What to Do
To minimize side effects during plasma donation, several steps can be taken. Before donating, ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water or non-caffeinated beverages. Eating a healthy meal before donation can reduce lightheadedness or fatigue. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine before donation, as these contribute to dehydration.
During the donation process, communicate any discomfort or unusual sensations to the clinic staff immediately. Staying still and relaxed throughout the procedure helps ensure proper needle placement and reduces the risk of vein irritation or hematoma. Following staff instructions, such as squeezing a ball, promotes proper blood flow.
After donation, continued hydration helps the body replenish fluids. Avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, or intense exercise for 24 hours to prevent re-bleeding and reduce fatigue. Apply firm pressure to the donation site after needle removal and keep the bandage on for several hours to prevent bruising and hematoma formation. If symptoms like persistent pain, swelling, significant bruising, or signs of infection (fever, pus) develop after leaving the center, contact the donation center staff. For severe symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, or prolonged dizziness, seek emergency medical attention.