Plasma, a yellowish liquid component of blood, serves as a vital resource in numerous medical treatments. It carries proteins, antibodies, and clotting factors essential for healing and fighting diseases. Donated plasma is processed to create therapies for individuals with immune system conditions, bleeding disorders, and severe burns.
The Plasma Donation Process
Plasma donation typically involves a procedure called plasmapheresis. Blood is drawn from a donor’s arm and enters a specialized machine that uses centrifugation, a spinning technique, to separate the plasma from other blood components like red blood cells and platelets. The plasma is collected, while the remaining blood components are mixed with a saline solution and returned to the donor’s body. This allows for the collection of a larger volume of plasma than traditional whole blood donation.
Common Side Effects
Donating plasma can lead to several common, usually mild, side effects as the body adjusts to the temporary fluid and nutrient changes. Lightheadedness, dizziness, and fatigue are frequently reported because the removal of plasma temporarily reduces blood volume and affects electrolyte balance. Donors might also experience a cold sensation during the process, and bruising at the needle insertion site is common.
Potential Serious Complications
While less common, plasma donation can sometimes lead to more serious complications. Nerve irritation or injury can occur if the needle touches a nerve during insertion or withdrawal, potentially causing sharp pain, tingling, or numbness in the arm or fingers. Another possible issue is a hematoma, a larger collection of blood under the skin. Infection at the needle site is a minor risk, though donation centers adhere to strict sterilization protocols.
A citrate reaction is a specific concern, as citrate is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood from clotting in the machine. Some citrate can return to the donor’s bloodstream, temporarily binding to calcium and causing symptoms like tingling in the lips or extremities, muscle twitching, chills, or lightheadedness. Although rare, severe allergic reactions to materials used during donation or an accidental arterial puncture, where an artery instead of a vein is accessed, can also occur.
Reducing Risks During and After Donation
Preparing adequately for plasma donation and following aftercare instructions can significantly reduce side effects. Donors should ensure they are well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water or non-caffeinated fluids in the 24 hours leading up to their appointment. Eating a healthy, balanced meal before donating is also important to maintain energy and nutrient levels. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol before donation is advisable, as these can contribute to dehydration.
After the donation, it is beneficial to continue hydrating and eat a nutritious snack. Donors should avoid strenuous physical activity, such as heavy lifting or intense exercise, for at least 24 hours to allow their body to recover. Applying firm pressure to the needle site immediately after donation can help minimize bruising. Monitoring the donation site for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pain, is also recommended.
Conditions That Prevent Donation
Certain health conditions and circumstances can prevent an individual from donating plasma, ensuring the safety of both the donor and recipient. Individuals with specific infectious diseases, such as HIV or Hepatitis B and C, are generally ineligible. Some chronic health conditions, including certain heart diseases or autoimmune disorders, may also lead to deferral, often requiring individual medical evaluation.
Certain medications, particularly blood thinners, can temporarily or permanently disqualify a donor due to their effect on clotting or potential harm to recipients. Additionally, recent tattoos or piercings often require a waiting period, typically several months, to mitigate any risk of bloodborne infections. Donors are also screened for sufficient protein and hemoglobin levels, and temporary deferrals may occur due to recent illness, fever, or low blood pressure.