Q: I’ve never donated blood because I get lightheaded around needles. How can I overcome this?
A: Here are some easy steps that can help you have a good experience: 1) Eat all three meals before and after the donation. 2) When you arrive at the blood center, please enjoy a full bottle of water and a salty snack such as crackers just before donating. 3) When you recline in the chair to donate blood, the phlebot-omist will raise your feet and will tell you to tighten and relax your arms, legs and abdomen for five seconds each over and over while you are donating. 4) Bring a book to read or watch TV while you donate. 5) When you are finished, dangle your feet over the side of the chair for a moment before standing up. 6) Stay in the recovery area for 15 minutes while you enjoy another drink and snack.
– Dr. Liz Culler, Blood
Assurance; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society
Readers: To submit a question for medical doctors, email it to Clint Cooper at ccooper@timesfreepress.com. See this space each week for answers.