A small number of donors experience minor side effects. Most are easy to manage at home if you know what to do.

Dizziness or light‑headedness

You may feel:

·       Light‑headed.

·       A bit “floating” or unsteady.

·       Slightly sweaty or pale.

This can happen right after donation or later in the day, especially if:

·       You stand up quickly.

·       You have not eaten or drunk enough.

·       You are very tired or stressed.

What to do:

·       Sit or lie down immediately; if lying, raise your legs slightly.

·       Take slow, deep breaths until the feeling passes.

·       Sip water or juice once you feel able.

Avoid driving long distances or doing tasks where fainting would be dangerous until you feel fully normal.

Bruise around the needle site

A small bruise (blue or purple mark) is common. It happens when blood leaks into the tissue under your skin.

What to do:

·       Keep the bandage on as advised right after donation.

·       For the first 24 hours, you can gently apply a cold pack (wrapped in cloth) to the area for 10–15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.

·       Over the next couple of days, switching to a warm compress can help the bruise clear more quickly.

Avoid heavy lifting or pressure on that arm for at least the rest of the day.

Mild pain or tenderness

You may feel:

·       Some aching where the needle went in.

·       Slight discomfort when bending your arm.

This usually fades within a day or two.

What to do:

·       Avoid repeated bending or strain at the site.

·       If needed, a simple pain reliever that you normally tolerate (like paracetamol) may be used, unless your doctor has told you to avoid it.

If pain is severe, increasing, or accompanied by swelling, redness, or warmth, contact the blood bank or a doctor.

Feeling tired or low on energy

Some donors feel more tired than usual:

·       Later in the day.

·       The next morning.

What to do:

·       Get a good night’s sleep.

·       Eat regular meals with some iron and protein.

·       Drink enough fluids.

Fatigue should improve within a day or two. If it continues for longer, or you feel breathless at rest, see a doctor because you may have had borderline hemoglobin or another underlying issue.