Debunking blood donation myths
Don't let any of these bloody myths stop you from making a difference and saving lives.
Donating blood is one of the simplest ways you can help your fellow human beings.
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In case you didn't know, one unit of blood can save three lives!
And we've decided to team up with the SANBS to help increase KZN's blood supply.
You can read more about that here.
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But if this is your first time donating or you might be considering coming through to donate, you might be a little scared.
So we want to calm your nerves and make you feel a little bit more at ease and clarify some things.
1. Giving blood is painful
The only pain you will feel is the initial prick of the needle. The area might be a little bit sensitive afterward but it will fade quickly.
(It's also a small price to pay in comparison to the good you will be doing.)
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2. If you donate blood, you won't have anything left in your body
With one single donation, you will be donating 473 ml of blood. Your body has approximately ten times that, roughlt 4,730 ml, and will start to replenish the blood as soon as it's left your system.
If you drink enough fluids it will help replenish your lost fluids as well and within a few days, you'll have all your lost cells back.
3. You can't donate blood because you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
You are more than welcome to donate blood if you have high cholesterol as long as you are otherwise healthy.
As for the high blood pressure: you can still donate as long as your blood pressure is under 180/100 at the time.
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4. You can't donate because you're taking medication
You should always give the staff at the blood bank all the information concerning any medication you might be taking, but most medication does not disqualify you.
And there you have it - four fewer reasons to avoid donating blood today!
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Main image courtesy of East Coast Radio