Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
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(Source: John Boyd of LifeSource Blood Services)
The minimum weight to donate blood is 110 pounds. (Also, please see our requirements page.)
It is rare for a person to faint. By eating a good meal and drinking extra fluids prior to donation, you can prevent dizziness.
A good night's sleep is suggested.
Yes, as long as you are feeling fine and not on medication. If you took prescription medication for an illness, you must wait 72 hours after you completed taking it.
Yes, depending on which medicine it is. LifeSource workers can tell you at the drive if your medication will prevent you from donating blood.
Any drug usage with a needle results in a permanent deferral.
Spending a cumulative period of six months in the United Kingdom results in a permanent deferral. Just traveling to England on a holiday is acceptable.
Yes, if you donate in the morning and play sports in the evening. It is best to avoid over-exertion on the day of donation and to drink extra water.
No. We can send you a card with your type if you request one at the time of donation.
Yes, if it has been over a year since you received the tattoo.
You can donate blood immediately after getting your ears pierced, as long as the piercing was done by a doctor or at a jewelry store. All other piercing requires a one year deferral.
Page last
updated on March 7, 2003
Problems? l-hamburg@northwestern.edu