DMII and Blood donation

Nurses General Nursing

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I have DMII - no meds at all - and donated blood yesterday. Today I'm very thirsty (WNL for me after a blood donation) but this AM my BS was 20 mg/dl higher than my usual range. It wasn't bad, but did surprise me since I rarely have triple digits fasting! Could donating blood have had an impact on this? I reviewed what I ate yesterday and can see how I would have had a slight increase, but not this much!

Thanks!

Your body replaces blood volume or plasma within 24 to 48 hours after a blood donantion. Red cells need about four to eight weeks for complete replacement. Maybe, your increase thirst is your body's attempt to increase your blood volume and the higher blood sugar is due from your blood being more concentrated. Just my own theory.

Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

Agree with feisty nurse. Increase your fluid volume and add one more protein serving to aid in RBC formation. Discuss with doctor/medical practioner if still concerned or remains above baseline after 48 hrs.

I drank gallons yesterday... Also feel sort of silly asking this question, but I'm still fairly new at the DM thing and even tho I can think it thru (told myself the same thing you told me!) I still feel the need for occasional reassurance. It's funny, but when I was dx'd, there was no surprise (I was extremely high risk) and I thought I'd deal well with it. The reality slammed me into a 6 week depression that still pops up from time to time (it's been a year and a half). I have a lot more empathy for others who deal with chronic conditions!

Thanks for your input. To f/u, the BS is WNL today. My protein intake is about the same - maybe I'll make a bigger effort to increase it a little (I prefer carbs to protein...). I guess I get tired of having to think about every little thing I put in my mouth!

Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

Protein especially important if having AM hypoglycemia-hs snack milk, peanut butter on cracker, 1/2 sanwich, cheese really helps---also helps to stabilze blood sugars. Hubby now in agreement no more AM lightheadness.:cool:

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