Potential Side Effects Of Donating Plasma

Allergic Reaction

It's very rare for someone to experience an allergic reaction, but this can happen. Depending on the type of reaction, this may be a mild side effect or potentially life-threatening. With a localized allergic reaction, individuals may have some irritation or redness on the skin surrounding the puncture wound. This occurs when they're allergic to a component of the disinfectant used. The most common localized reactions occur due to an iodine allergy. A citrate reaction, mentioned earlier, is more serious. When individuals donate plasma, citrate is added to the blood to prevent clots from forming. Most citrate will stay in the plasma machine, but a bit will enter the bloodstream. If patients have a citrate reaction, they may feel numbness in their fingers, toes, and lips. They might also be lightheaded, have an irregular heartbeat, and experience chills and shivering. If this reaction isn't treated, it can lead to cardiac arrest or other life-threatening complications.

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