Some people can feel lightheaded or dizzy during a blood donation. But there’s a technique you can use to avoid those unpleasant side effects, and it’s as simple as flexing your muscles.
Here’s what to do:
- Once your donation has started, flex your free arm – curl it like you were lifting a weight – count slowly to five, then lower your arm.
- Relax your whole body as you count to 20.
- Flex your abdomen and count slowly to five.
- Relax again as you count to 20.
- Flex your legs – or if you prefer, cross and uncross your legs as you count to five.
- Relax again.
- Repeat the cycle.
Research has shown this flex-and-relax system temporarily boosts your blood pressure and heart rate, preventing the sensation of lightheadedness or dizziness.
