There may also be some bruising at the site. There may be a very small risk of a delayed reaction to the transfusion. Although this does not typically cause problems, a person should consult a doctor if they feel unwell and have unexpected symptoms, such as nausea, swelling, jaundice , or an itchy rash.
It is important to let a doctor know about any symptoms that might signal a reaction, such as nausea or difficulty breathing. Blood transfusions are very safe. Strict procedures exist to ensure that the testing, handling, and storage of donated blood is as safe as possible. Such reactions can be either mild or severe. Some reactions occur immediately, while others can take several days to appear. Examples include:. Allergic reactions are common. A person may experience a fever following a blood transfusion.
Although this is not serious, if they also experience chest pain or nausea, they should let a doctor know as soon as possible. This can occur when the blood types are not compatible, causing the immune system to attack the new blood cells. This is a serious reaction, but it is very rare. In very rare cases, donated blood can contain bacteria, viruses, or parasites that may cause infections such as HIV or hepatitis B or C.
However, according to the CDC, experts test every blood donation for these contaminants. It is therefore very rare for a person to contract an infection from a blood transfusion. In fact, according to the American Red Cross , the chance of a person contracting hepatitis B is 1 in ,, and the likelihood of contracting hepatitis C is 1 in 1. The chances of getting HIV from a blood transfusion in the United States is less than 1 in 1 million. A blood transfusion is a safe procedure that replaces blood lost to injury or surgery.
It can also help treat certain medical conditions. Although infections are very rare, it is possible for the body to react to the new blood. In most cases, however, these reactions are mild.
Blood types depend on the content of the blood cells and are inherited from parents. There are eight main types. Which type you have affects how you…. More common reactions include allergic reactions, which might cause hives and itching, and fever.
Blood banks screen donors and test donated blood to reduce the risk of transfusion-related infections, so infections, such as HIV or hepatitis B or C, are extremely rare.
Your blood will be tested before a transfusion to determine whether your blood type is A, B, AB or O and whether your blood is Rh positive or Rh negative. The donated blood used for your transfusion must be compatible with your blood type.
Blood transfusions are usually done in a hospital, an outpatient clinic or a doctor's office. The procedure typically takes one to four hours, depending on which parts of the blood you receive and how much blood you need.
In some cases, you can donate blood for yourself before elective surgery, but most transfusions involve blood donated by strangers. An identification check will ensure you receive the correct blood. An intravenous IV line with a needle is inserted into one of your blood vessels.
The donated blood that's been stored in a plastic bag enters your bloodstream through the IV. You'll be seated or lying down for the procedure, which usually takes one to four hours. A nurse will monitor you throughout the procedure and take measures of your blood pressure, temperature and heart rate. Tell the nurse immediately if you develop:. The needle and IV line will be removed.
You might develop a bruise around the needle site, but this should go away in a few days. Contact your health care provider if you develop shortness of breath or chest or back pain in the days immediately following a blood transfusion. This may be because your body's not making enough red blood cells or because you have lost blood.
A blood transfusion can replace blood you have lost, or just replace the liquid or cells found in blood such as red blood cells, plasma or cells called platelets. Before having a blood transfusion, the procedure will be explained to you and you'll be asked to sign a consent form. A sample of your blood will also be taken to check your blood group.
You might feel a sharp prick when the needle is first inserted into your vein, but you should not feel anything during the transfusion.
You'll be checked regularly while receiving the blood. Tell a member of staff if you feel unwell or uncomfortable. Some people develop a temperature, chills or a rash.
This is usually treated with paracetamol or by slowing down the transfusion. Contact a GP if you feel unwell within 24 hours of having a blood transfusion, especially if you have difficulty breathing or pain in your chest or back. All donor blood is checked before it's used to make sure it does not contain serious infections such as hepatitis or HIV. The risks will be explained before having a transfusion, unless this is not possible — for example, if you need an emergency transfusion.
A blood transfusion will only be recommended if it's needed and other treatments will not help.
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