What Are the Dangers of Regularly Donating Plasma?

According to the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association, blood plasma contains proteins that are useful for treating burn and shock patients, as well as those with chronic diseases and rare disorders. Because plasma can't be copied or manufactured, donations are the only resource for many vital treatments and therapies. The demand for plasma worldwide tops 20 million liters, and in the United States more than 380 licensed plasma centers accept donations. Most offer monetary compensation for your time. Donating your plasma can help save lives, but you need to stay healthy to qualify.

Process

• According to the American Red Cross, plasma is separated from other blood components through a process called apheresis. Whole blood is drawn from your vein into a machine, which then isolates plasma and returns other blood components to your vein. Actual donation time is around an hour and a half. Plasma donors must be at least 17, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.

Time Frame

• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stipulates that plasma can be donated up to two times weekly, with at least 48 hours between the donations. Your body typically reproduces plasma in about 24 hours, but you need time to recover from the donation process. Plasma centers should advise donors to limit activity for 24 hours because lowered energy levels and fatigue are common.

Effects

• The FDA requires plasma centers to inform donors of the following possible effects: localized infection at the venipuncture site; tingling in lips or fingers resulting from the use of anticoagulant; "allergic reactions such as flushing, itching, hives, abdominal cramps, difficulty breathing, chest pain or bronchospasm, which may vary in severity from mild to life-threatening, nausea, vomiting, light-headedness, fainting or seizures."

Considerations

• Because plasma is 90 percent water, donating plasma can be dehydrating. Drink plenty of water before and after giving, and avoid alcoholic beverages and excess caffeine. You also need to eat something before donating.

Conclusions

• According to Columbia University's Health Services, research indicates that regularly donating plasma is safe. A small percentage of donors experience lowered antibody levels and low iron levels, the latter being more common in pre-menopausal women. Regular donations can also lead to scarred veins. Plasma centers should check levels at least every four months to determine your eligibility to give. Pay attention to your body. If you're feeling more tired than usual, give yourself adequate time to recuperate before giving again.