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Blood transfusion in Canada

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Crohn's Disease
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Posted Today 11:55 PM (GMT 0)
Hey, haven't been here in awhile. I check in and read posts but that is about it. Had my fourth bowel resection a year ago. Hemoglobin is bad, sending me for a blood transfusion. Can anyone tell me about them. Thanks in advance.
Posted 12/3/2008 12:42 AM (GMT 0)
What is your hemoglobin level?

They are safe and you should notice a difference quickly, in a day or 2. It takes a few hours.
Posted 12/3/2008 12:48 AM (GMT 0)
There isn't much to them really. I had two this summer, and the procedure is basically: lie in bed for a few hours until the blood is from point A to point B. Obviously there are a few papers to sign but not so much that you can call it tedious.
In any case, it should be fine.
Posted 12/3/2008 6:28 PM (GMT 0)
You should feel the effects fairly quick, unless you are really really low. I have had about 18units in the past two years and you really just need to just get comfy, and relax, takes about two to three hours and you are good to go. I always found that I got really cold and would get two or three of those nice warmed flannel blankets and I sleep through most of it, but then again I can sleep anywhere at any time. I still can not get my hemoglobin above 90, but hope to soon stop losing so much blood. Take Care and good luck with it all.
Posted 12/3/2008 6:35 PM (GMT 0)
Badgut, are you able to work at a job with levels below 90?
Posted 12/5/2008 2:33 AM (GMT 0)
No Rider Fan I am not able to work. I get my kids off to school, sleep and after school run them for hockey. Ugh!! For about four months they could not get me above 52 - 60, so when I am up at 90 I am feeling pretty darn Fine (lol). Am having twice weekly iron shots and one transfusion every 10 days, so I will be pumped for Christmas.
Posted 12/5/2008 2:59 AM (GMT 0)
Ya I didn't think you'd be able to. Well, good luck with everything, I'm sure you'll be doing better soon.
Posted 12/8/2008 2:25 PM (GMT 0)
Hey thanks to all,

I had 2 units on Thursday last week, feeling a bit better. Can have a shower and blow dry my hair without panting like a dog. My hemoglobin was 78, but I also have been having iron shot for 12 weeks, so this was the decision. When I am out running the kids around I am ON, but when I get through that door I am OFF, CRANKY, and IRRITABLE. All signs of anemia. Most peeps say, gee you don't even look sick. Man that drives me crazy.

Anyway thanks so much.
Posted 12/8/2008 5:11 PM (GMT 0)
Ya those are famous last words--You don't even look sick-- That could make me scream, its nothing a good hairdo and lots of makeup can't fix..lol Glad you made out ok with the transfusion and hope it keeps you going for awhile. Take Care
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