Pain and felt faint for the first time

[Anonymous]

Just to share my recent blood donation experience.
I went for the usual blood donation over the weekend. Having donated blood more than 10 times before, this was the first time that I felt pain from the needle, not at the site of entry but at the tip of the needle that was embeded in my vein. Each time I squeezed the rubber ball, I felt a sharp pain. I then started to feel faint and broke out in cold sweat. This was very unusual for me as I usually did not feel any pain and am fine after each donation. I had to be tilted with my feet up and head down. It was quite an embarrassing situation.

Does anybody know what actually happened to me? :? :?:

[Cecilia Tan]

Hi, I have had this experience once before. I told the nurse immediately and she made some adjustment to the needle. And the pain was gone. She explained that sometimes, the needle does not sit well and when we press on the stress ball, it can cause some discomfort or pain. We should always alert the nurse on this so that they can make the neccessary adjustment. The fainting can be due to anxiety and I don't think it serious. However, I do suggest that we, female donors, ensure sufficient replacement of iron after each donation. I was told by the doctor that our body increases the absorption of iron by two times after losing blood. We should take the iron supplement within the week of blood donation.

[Anonymous]

Thanks, Cecilia, for your comments and advice. :)