If the thought of donating blood gives you jitters, it’s probably because of the myths attached to it than your fear. But here’s to no more falling-for-the-myths. Celebrating World Blood Donor Day today, we got in touch with Dr Shaheen Shikh, General Physician, Healthenablr India Pvt Ltd. to understand the myths that have been refuted by medicine.
Here are six myths busted for you!
Myth: It is dangerous to take part in sports or other physical activities after donating blood.
Fact: Your body can safely function to perform your day-to-day activities after an hour of donating blood. You can also safely take part in physical sports and resume a normal schedule the day after you donate blood.
Myth: I can’t give blood because I’m on medication.
Fact: It is safe to donate blood on almost all types of medication, as long as you are healthy and when the condition you are being treated for is under control.
Myth: It takes up to six months to replenish the blood that you donate.
Fact: The recommended period between donations is three to four months. Different components take different lengths of time to replenish. Your blood volume is usually restored within 10 minutes, plasma within 24 hours, platelets within 72 hours and red blood cells in two to four weeks, while iron requires 12 weeks in men and 16 weeks in women.
Myth: I should not donate blood frequently; it will make my body weak.
Fact: A healthy person can donate blood up to four times a year without any adverse effects on one’s body. Make sure to maintain a minimum three-month gap between each blood donation.
Myth: It’s okay to smoke or drink a day before, blood donation.
Fact: It is advisable to refrain from smoking at least two hours before you donate blood. It is also not advisable to consume alcohol at least 24 hours before donating blood.
Myth: I can’t give blood because I have high blood pressure.
Fact: As long as your blood pressure levels are between 180 systolic (top number) and 100 diastolic (bottom number) at the time of blood donation; it is safe for you to donate blood. To that effect, blood pressure medication does not disqualify you from donating blood.
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