What happens if you are given the wrong blood type?

Receiving a blood transfusion with an incompatible blood type can lead to a life-threatening condition called a transfusion reaction. Here's what happens if you are given the wrong blood type:

Immediate reaction:

Within minutes of receiving incompatible blood, you may experience an immediate reaction known as an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction. This reaction occurs when antibodies in your plasma attack the transfused red blood cells, causing them to rupture (lyse). Signs and symptoms of an immediate reaction include:

1. Fever

2. Chills

3. Headaches

4. Low blood pressure

5. Rapid heart rate

6. Shortness of breath

7. Chest pain

8. Back pain

9. Nausea

10. Vomiting

Delayed reaction:

In some cases, a transfusion reaction can occur several days or even weeks after receiving incompatible blood. This is called a delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction. It occurs when your immune system continues to produce antibodies against the foreign red blood cells, leading to their gradual destruction. Symptoms of a delayed reaction are similar to those of an immediate reaction but may be less severe.

Complications:

Transfusion reactions, particularly severe ones, can lead to serious complications, such as:

1. Kidney damage: The breakdown products of destroyed red blood cells can clog the small blood vessels in your kidneys, impairing their function.

2. Liver damage: The breakdown products of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, can accumulate in the liver, causing damage.

3. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC): Transfusion reactions can trigger the activation of clotting mechanisms, leading to excessive blood clotting throughout the body. DIC can cause widespread damage to blood vessels and organs.

4. Severe anemia: Transfusion reactions can result in a significant decrease in red blood cells, leading to anemia. This can cause weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.

5. Death: In severe cases, transfusion reactions can be fatal.

To prevent transfusion reactions, strict protocols are in place at hospitals and blood banks to ensure that blood transfusions are safe and that compatible blood is given to patients. These protocols include careful matching of blood types and thorough screening of blood donations.