Blood transfusion
A blood transfusion is when you are given blood from another person to increase your levels of oxygen-carrying haemoglobin. Our expert haematology team are highly experienced at performing this procedure for a variety of needs.
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What is it for?
Increasing your red blood cell count
Treatment overview
Your blood is made up of a number of different types of cells floating in a fluid full of proteins and other chemicals. One of the most important types of cell in your blood is the red blood cell.
Red blood cells contain a protein called haemoglobin which is responsible for carrying oxygen from your lungs to all the parts of your body.
If your haemoglobin levels are low it means that the all-important oxygen is not getting to the tissues that need it. The number of red blood cells, and therefore your haemoglobin levels, can be low for several reasons.
Firstly, blood itself can be lost, such as during surgery, childbirth or through trauma. Secondly, the red cells may be faulty or be damaged, such as in sickle-cell anaemia or thalassaemia. Thirdly, the production of red blood cells can be affected, such as in certain cancers or chemotherapy.
Your specialist will keep you informed throughout and help you to understand both why it is needed, and also the risks and benefits of the procedure.
FAQ's
Your specialist will explain to you the reasons why you need a blood transfusion, and you will both agree a plan. A cannula will be inserted into a vein, usually in your hand or arm which the blood will run through.
The unit of blood will be attached by a line to your drip. Whilst the blood is running, and for a period of time afterwards, you will be closely monitored.
If you are well afterwards and do not need further treatment, you will be able to go home once you and your specialist think you are ready.
Placing the drip in the hand or arm usually feels like a sharp scratch.
The blood transfusion itself should not be painful, although you may feel a dull ache in your arm.
The speed of your transfusion can vary greatly. In an emergency, blood can be given very quickly. The longest that one unit of blood can be transfused over is 4 hours.
This will depend on the reasons that you need the transfusion. If it is to replace blood that you have lost, then you may only need one.
If it is to treat an ongoing medical problem, then you may need regular transfusions. At London Haematology, your specialist will discuss with you how often you need blood transfusions as part of your personalised treatment plan.
The UK is one of the safest countries in the world to have a blood transfusion. All blood is tested, both to make sure that it is a perfect match for you, and also to make sure that it is free from any infection.
London Haematology complies perfectly with the regulations for blood transfusion from the National Patient Safety Agency and is regularly audited by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency. Our staff are thoroughly trained in how to safely administer blood transfusions.
Some people occasionally feel chills, have a temperature or a rash.
You should not be worried if this happens, as it can be treated with paracetamol, or by slowing down the transfusion. The risk of other reactions, such as an allergic reaction, or problems with the heart, lungs or immune system due to the transfusion, is very low.
Your specialist will discuss all the risks and benefits with you before your transfusion and answer any questions you might have