1. The Importance of Blood Type
You may have heard characters from Hollywood medical dramas yelling out "AB negative!" and frantically transfusing their patients in an effort to stabilize them. But just how important is it to know your blood type? Only certain types of blood can be given to each patient because of a risk for the immune system to attack the donated blood and make that patient sick. If you require a transfusion, knowing your blood type may not be as important as you may think, however. One blood type (O negative, to be exact) can be universally given to all patients with very little risk of a bad reaction.
2. Transfusion Improves Anemia
If you require a transfusion, chances are you have lost a significant amount of blood somehow, probably from surgery or an accident. Blood loss can lead to anemia. Replacing this lost blood with a transfusion can help correct the anemia. Most people have more energy and feel better once their anemia is corrected, especially if it was severe.
3. Transfusion Reactions Are Real
Rarely, your immune system may attack the donated blood cells, causing you to become very ill. Symptoms can range from the mild, such as fevers, to the severe, such as shock and even death. Fortunately, these types of reactions are rare, and if you undergo a transfusion, your health care provider should take precautions, such as checking your vital signs before and during your transfusion.
4. Self-Donation Can Be an Option
Occasionally, some patients schedule a surgery in which their doctor expects a significant loss of blood. Sometimes you can "donate" your own blood in advance of this type of surgery. Some of this blood can be saved and transfused back to you after surgery. This is a great option, if possible, since it virtually eliminates any risk of blood-transmitted diseases and transfusion reactions. Before you have your surgery, talk to your doctor and ask if this is an option for you.
5. Donating Blood Is a Gift
We've all heard the media reports about the blood supply shortage, especially after major natural disasters. We all have the expectation that in today's health care system, if we are in need of a transfusion, that need will be met. Unfortunately, we are all vulnerable if we don't give back in some way. We can all pitch in and give the gift of life to someone in need.
