Just Gave Blood and Exercise

stah

So I gave blood around 11:00am today. I got a little light headed and almost passed out. I'm thinking it has to do with me not eating a big breakfast this morning.

Anyway, my question is how bad would it be for me to try to walk this afternoon. Nothing real strenuous, just a 30 minute walk on a treadmill. Aside from passing out, would there be anymore risks to this?

rfalias

You felt light headed because you gave blood... you need to eat and take it easy. 30 minute walk will still be there tomorrow.

That's why they usually give you cookies or something after you give blood.

Metalbourne

I'd take it easy too.

If there's a chance of you passing out or even getting really dizzy, it's kind of polite to not subject other people to that if you can help it. And if it's where there are no other people, I'd highly advise against it. Just imagine passing out and falling down with the top of your rubbing against the treadmill. It's going to wear out a bald spot and your hair is never going to part right. So go ahead and take it easy. Not working out one day every six weeks isn't going to ruin your physique.

kaliyama

I think you'd be fine. I'd give it a few more hours, just make sure you've eaten sufficiently.

stah

I didn't think about it being an issue for other people. And I'd really have to rub a bald spot on my head. That would be pretty lame.

So yeah. Taking it easy.

EggyToast

Since you almost passed out, you should take it easy for a few hours afterwards. It's different for different people so it's hard to give advice. When I give blood I don't feel any different and the last time I gave blood I just walked out and had a 15 minute walk back to my car, without feeling lightheaded or anything (I did take some snacks & juice for later, though). But other people get very lightheaded and/or pass out, and are kind of "off" for 3-4 hours afterwards.

Feels Good Man

I've given blood and done exercise later that day. Sort of forced to I guess, but it really depends on the person. If you almost passed out, drink some juice or soda (hooray!) and take a nap. Then wake up and see how you feel. You really should be fine.

As a plus note, if you're one that goes out during evenings, it will be really easy to get drunk -- cheap! Bonus!

Darkewolfe

I tried to go to fencing practice after donating blood once. I was so exhausted when I finished my first bout that I literally couldn't pull my own mask off. I ended up sitting in the corner for about an hour after some friends practically carried me over there. A walk probably won't hurt you much, but you might feel unpleasantly tired afterward.

Edit: late advice is late.

Thanatos

You really should take it easy after giving blood.

Also, you need to eat something substantial about 30 minutes before giving blood, and make sure you're hydrated.

Mmmm... Cocks...

Don't they mention no heavy lifting or exercise X hours after giving blood?
Why push it?

When I give blood I sit around eating and drinking all day.
Usually while watching TV and feeling good about what I did. 8-)

Cabezone

Even the military gives you the day off exercise after giving blood.

RUNN1NGMAN

Definitely take the day off and drink LOTS of fluids.

Also, take it easy the next couple days--it can take up to a week to replace the blood volume you lost. So it will be normal to get tired faster.