Community Forum Archive

The Epilepsy Community Forums are closed, and the information is archived. The content in this section may not be current or apply to all situations. In addition, forum questions and responses include information and content that has been generated by epilepsy community members. This content is not moderated. The information on these pages should not be substituted for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Experiences with epilepsy can vary greatly on an individual basis. Please contact your doctor or medical team if you have any questions about your situation. For more information, learn about epilepsy or visit our resources section.

Not allowed to donate blood

Fri, 07/14/2006 - 11:38

Topic: Corner Booth

Aw man, this SUCKS!! I was all set to go donate blood with my husband at lunch. I even didn't take a lunch break so I could have a full hour to do what I needed to do. I'm not allowed to donate blood!!!!!! Why? Becuase I'm on meds. Apparently even though I've never had a convulsive seizure, the fact that I'm on an AED disqualifies me, since it changes my blood level, thus affecting how my body metabolizes my aeds. >. urgh!!!

Comments

Re: Re: Not allowed to donate blood

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 2006-07-21 - 12:27

Hi everyone, I encourage everyone to check wtih the Red Cross in their state. I believe that the blanket prohibition against donating blood is not there, but it can vary state to state. The biggest concern I have heard is whether donating blood can affect a person's seizures. If a person is not bothered by donating blood and their health care provider says okay, then most times it's okay.. check locally and with your treating doctor! another thought - if you can't donate for one reason or another, donate time at the blood draws - they are totally volunteer run! Epi_help

Re: Not allowed to donate blood

Submitted by maBenzi on Tue, 2010-02-16 - 03:49

Hi Epi_help

What would happen to me if I received blood from someone who takes an AED that I am allergic to? (SJS from Lamictin, swollen glands from Tegretol).

Thanks.

Hi Epi_help

What would happen to me if I received blood from someone who takes an AED that I am allergic to? (SJS from Lamictin, swollen glands from Tegretol).

Thanks.

Hi Heather,Susan, Patty &

Submitted by IRule on Sat, 2006-07-29 - 00:33

Hi Heather,Susan, Patty & fzmousie, I remember when my Uncle had cancer...He needed blood and I am the same blood type, we all got excited thinking he could use my blood, until the hospital said Nope, I can Never donate blood,since I had Hepatitis years ago. So since I can't do anything that way, I would help the only way I could...I would volunteer time in the blooddrive. Since I am a trained Phlebotomist, It doesn't bother me to be around the blood. I can hang out in there and help them with the paperwork, or whatever they need. They have their own people draw the blood. Dayna

Sign Up for Emails

Stay up to date with the latest epilepsy news, stories from the community, and more.