I donated blood last week Thursday. I volunteered for the process called “double red” where they take two pints worth of red blood cells, but put the “other stuff” back into you with saline. Last time I did this, I had problems breathing and had to take some time off. I forgot in the 4 months since I donated all the things that happened. So I’m recording it here to remind me.
I’m a big believer in donating blood, but the side effects of this procedure (unless they are all in my head) aren’t good. Even after almost a week, I have shortness of breath, elevated heart rate when working out, and I think depression. There are a bunch of other issues like heart palpatations that come and go… while I will donate blood again, I think I’ll forgo the double red.
