I got a hematoma while donating plasma?

Question

I gave plasma for the first time last week Wednesday. I started with the left arm, and it pumped alright. Then my vein started to pop up and got really puffy while the blood was going back into my body. I know, it's called a hematoma. So they took the needle out, and my right arm gave plasma real nicely. So my question is, should I just continue to donate with the good arm? AND will I get a hematoma again? Thanks for your help.

Answer 1

First of all you are a great person . So kind , asking to donate again even though it might cause you harm. You are a very brave person.

I would actually call the American Red Cross and see what they would suggest.

Good luck.  

Answer 2

The needles they use to draw are pretty big.  Your phlebotomist probably didn't put enough pressure on the site after it was done.  This allowed blood to continue to leak into the tissue forming a hematoma.  A hematoma is much like a bruise, the lines between them blur.  Hematoma's are usually a larger more defined area.  If you give blood again, I'd be sure to put pressure on the site for 5 minutes following the drawing of blood or plasma.  

As for the hematoma you have now.  Warm moist packs will help.  If the sensation in the arm, the color of the arm and pain persist or get worse you need to see a Dr to rule out significant damage to tissues , nerves or circulation.