Donating Blood after WLS??
What have ya'll been told about donating blood after having WLS? I have heard both extremes as its fine all the way to you should “never” do it. One of Duke’s WLS surgeons say it was OK as long as you were a year out and your blood work is fine. I have A- blood which is not that common so I have always given blood 2-3 times a year for the past 25+ years. I am now 11 months out and I gave blood October 2006 and I also did today. My blood chem. numbers were fine when my PCP did them in December 2006. I feel fine and I’ll see what my blood chemistry is like on my one year checkup at Duke on April 3rd. It such a selfless act that can do so much good for others, I would hate to have to give it up. Just curious what the word on the street is about WLS and blood donation?
Tim,
It shouldn’t be a problem.
The ‘Typical’ list for Eligibility--
To be eligible to donate blood you must:
If you are currently taking any medications:
- Acceptable medications: OTC medications, blood pressure medications, oral medications for diabetes, hormone replacement medications, allergy medications, anti-inflammatory, pain medications, antibiotics for acne (except Accutane), topical medications, anti-depressants
- Unacceptable medications: heart regulating medication, anti-coagulants, antibiotic therapy (eligible for donation 48 hours after completion of medication), long-term steroid therapy
Being on Coumadin for life keeps me from donating. All I've found.... Best Wishes- Dx
I'm not a Doctor, but I have worked for the Red Cross as a phlebotomist, and am currently a regular blood donor. My guess is that being post WLS alone, is not relevant to whether or not you may donate blood. Eligiblity is based on health issues, as described in another post. Being able to donate blood is one of the BENEFITS I've realized after having WLS. My veins are now MUCH easier to access for the phlebotomy.
Hey Tim, I asked my surgeon on my last visit because I regularly give also. He told me to wait 18 months before starting to give again. He said to wait to let my system get use to the new me. He said I needed to make sure my blood counts and iron levels were where they should be, because it might be harder for me to get them built back up, I am 13 weeks out. AB+ here. If I don't give the Red Cross calls me, so I told them I would see them in about a year. pan head
