Plasma donation collects the liquid portion of blood, plasma, for medical use. It contains proteins and antibodies essential for blood clotting and fighting infections. Donated plasma creates life-saving therapies for conditions like immune deficiencies, bleeding disorders, trauma, and burns. While generally safe, potential donors often have questions about side effects.
Common Physical Sensations and Minor Reactions
The initial needle insertion may cause a brief pinching feeling. As blood is drawn, some donors might feel a dull, pulling sensation at the needle site. After plasma separation, red blood cells return to the body, often with saline, causing a temporary cold sensation.
Lightheadedness or dizziness can occur due to temporary fluid reduction and a slight blood pressure drop. Fatigue is also a frequent side effect as the body replenishes fluids. These sensations usually resolve within a few hours.
Minor bruising at the needle site is common. It occurs when blood leaks from the vein into surrounding tissues after needle removal. Bruising can be tender but typically fades within a week. Applying pressure immediately after donation can help minimize it.
Infrequent or Serious Complications
A citrate reaction is one possibility, from citrate, an anticoagulant used in the donation machine. A small amount returns to the donor, temporarily binding with calcium. Symptoms include tingling in the lips, fingers, or toes, a metallic taste, chills, shivering, or muscle twitching. Rare, severe reactions can involve rapid or slow pulse, shortness of breath, and seizures.
Nerve irritation or injury is a rare complication if the needle touches a nerve during insertion or withdrawal. This can cause sharp pain, numbness, or tingling at the puncture site or radiating down the arm. While often short-term, weakness or persistent pain warrant medical attention.
Infection at the needle site is another rare risk, as bacteria can enter when skin is punctured. Signs include localized pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around the site. Strict sterile procedures minimize this risk at donation centers. Fainting (syncope) can also occur, often triggered by a vasovagal response to needles, stress, or dehydration. It is more common in first-time donors and resolves quickly with rest and rehydration.
Ensuring a Safe Donation Experience
A safe plasma donation begins with thorough donor screening. Donors undergo evaluations and health checks to confirm eligibility, protecting both donor and recipient. This identifies conditions that might make donation unsafe.
Proper preparation is important. Donors should stay well-hydrated with water or non-caffeinated fluids 24 hours before. Eating a protein-rich meal at least three hours prior, avoiding fatty foods and alcohol, can prevent lightheadedness. Adequate rest the night before also contributes to a smoother donation.
Communicate any discomfort to staff during donation; personnel monitor donors and address symptoms promptly. After donation, rest, hydrate, and avoid strenuous physical activity for the day. If persistent dizziness, severe bruising, or infection signs develop, contact the donation center or a healthcare provider.