Is It Normal to Feel Blood Flow During Donation? Expert Insights

Blood donation issues

Hello, Dr.
Ho.
I have donated whole blood six times so far, and I would like to inquire about a sensation I experienced during my most recent donation.
I felt a sensation of blood flowing in the arm from which I was donating, and I would like to know if this is normal or if there could be another reason for it.
This is the first time I have encountered this.
When the needle was first inserted and the blood was being drawn, I felt the blood flowing out from my right arm.
After a while, that sensation disappeared, but then it suddenly returned before I finished donating.
Ultimately, I completed the donation without any other issues.
However, during the time I felt the blood flowing, it was only in the arm where I was donating; I did not experience this sensation in any other part of my body.
In the past, whether I had donated blood or not, I have never felt this sensation before.
Today was the first time I experienced it briefly while donating blood.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/25

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, it is possible that this time the needle insertion slightly affected a nerve, which is why you are feeling some sensations.
You can continue to be a good person and donate blood at Changhua Hospital.
We care about you.

Reply Date: 2023/08/25

More Info

Feeling blood flow during a blood donation can be an unusual experience, but it is not necessarily abnormal. When you donate blood, a needle is inserted into a vein, and blood is drawn out. This process can sometimes create sensations that may be perceived as blood flowing through the arm. Several factors can contribute to this feeling.

Firstly, the sensation you experienced could be related to the way the needle interacts with the nerve endings in the area around the vein. When the needle is inserted, it may stimulate nearby nerves, leading to a temporary sensation of blood flow. This is particularly true if the needle is positioned in a way that slightly irritates the surrounding tissues or nerves. It’s important to note that this sensation is usually harmless and should resolve once the donation process is complete.

Additionally, the feeling of blood flowing can also be influenced by the speed at which blood is drawn. If the blood is being drawn quickly, you may feel a more pronounced sensation of flow. Conversely, if the blood is drawn slowly or if there is a momentary pause, the sensation may diminish or disappear altogether. This variability can lead to the intermittent feelings you described during your donation.

It’s also worth considering that individual sensitivity to sensations can vary widely from person to person. Some individuals may be more attuned to bodily sensations and may notice feelings that others do not. If you have previously donated blood without experiencing this sensation, it could simply be a unique response to the specific circumstances of this donation, such as your hydration level, the position of your arm, or even your emotional state at the time.

If you experience any discomfort, pain, or unusual symptoms during or after the donation, it is essential to inform the medical staff immediately. They are trained to handle such situations and can provide assistance if needed. However, based on your description, it seems that you completed the donation without any adverse effects, which is a positive sign.

In summary, while feeling blood flow during a donation can be surprising, it is not typically a cause for concern. It may be attributed to nerve stimulation, the speed of blood withdrawal, or individual sensitivity. If you have any ongoing concerns or if this sensation recurs in future donations, it may be beneficial to discuss it with a healthcare professional or the staff at the blood donation center. They can provide further insights and ensure that your donation experience is safe and comfortable.

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