Can I Donate Plasma If I Have High Cholesterol?

Plasma donations are necessary for those experiencing various illnesses and disorders. Many potential donors hesitate to do so, though, because they have questions regarding their own health and other circumstances. "Can I donate plasma if I have high cholesterol?" is just one of many questions people may have about the process.

DoNotPay explains the answers to this question and more. Far more people have the ability to donate than they may realize. With such dire times, donors are needed now more than ever.

First, What Does Plasma Donation Entail?

Heading to any appointment can seem daunting if you aren't sure what to expect. Your first plasma donation will take the longest. You need to get your information entered into the system, have your documents checked, and meet with a physician to ensure you're in good health. After a medical evaluation, you should finally be ready to head to the area where donations take place.

An employee will check for a good vein to use for the donation. It needs to be large enough to accommodate the larger-than-usual needle. Be sure to drink plenty of water beforehand to ensure a sufficient vein. The machine takes your blood, and then works to separate the plasma from it before putting the blood and additional saline back into your body.

Many people express feeling cold during their donation, so it's advised to bring a sweatshirt or blanket so you'll be comfortable. It's also wise to bring a book or device that can help keep you occupied. The entire process can take roughly 90 minutes.

How Well Do I Get Compensated?

Donating plasma doesn't earn you enough money for a full income, but it does compensate you pretty well. You can find coupons and special monthly deals to help you earn even more. The average facility gives up to $90 for initial donations, and at least $25 for further visits.

You're able to donate twice per week, giving you the potential to earn hundreds in any given month. You can also earn money for referrals, so it's wise to tell your family and friends about the program and get them to donate as well. You'll be helping yourself, them, and whoever is in need of the donation.

What are Some of the Basic Qualifications?

Every facility will have its own set of rules for plasma donation. You'll tend to come across the same basic qualifications for most, though.

1. You have to be in good overall health.
2. You have to have a wide vein that can accommodate the needle.
3. You have to maintain a healthy weight. (Most facilities require you to be between 110 pounds and 350 pounds.)
4. You have to be between the ages of 18 and 66 at most facilities. (Older adults in good health may still be accepted.)
5. You have to provide the required documents, such as ID and social security card, to verify identity, citizenship, and address.

You may be disqualified if you're currently pregnant, have recently had a piercing or tattoo, are currently sick, or even had dental work in the past 72 hours.

Can I Donate If I Have High Cholesterol?

If you're wondering, "Can I donate plasma if I have high cholesterol?", the answer is yes. You are still able to donate despite your cholesterol worries. The filtration process helps to get the plasma only, and not the blood itself. Plus, the transfusion process during a routine blood donation dilutes it anyway. The donated blood would not have the same high cholesterol levels to worry about.

However, you do need to check with the facility you're donating at to determine if any cholesterol medication you're taking can affect things. Some can and may prohibit you for donating, or require a doctor's note.

What About High Blood Pressure?

Your blood pressure reading at the time of plasma donation could hinder your ability to donate that day. If you're already experiencing high blood pressure that can affect your heart and stress levels, it wouldn't be wise to stress your body out further. You may be asked to wait a day or two and come back again to see if your levels are a little lower before you're able to donate.

Other Medical Questions

Lots of other medical questions come up when it comes to wondering about the plasma donation process. A couple of them include:

• Can you donate plasma after the Covid vaccine?
• Can diabetics donate plasma?

In terms of both, the answer is yes. You are still able to donate plasma even if you have had the Covid vaccine or if you're a diabetic. Of course, that will still be dependent on your medical evaluation at the time of check-in. As long as you appear healthy and well, your donation should be accepted as usual.

Plasma Centers With Nationwide Facilities

Countless plasma donation centers exist throughout the states. You'll want to look into local options to set up your appointments, but these are the names and general contact numbers for some of the main companies.

Donate Plasma With DoNotPay's Assistance

Rather than attempt to find a donation center and get signed up on your own, you can do so with DoNotPay's assistance. We'll send your information over and see if you meet the facility's qualifications to continue applying to be a donor.

1. Search "plasma donations" on DoNotPay and find the nearest donation clinic through our related product.

2. Select the "Contact Now" button to learn more about eligibility criteria, contact the clinic with questions, or sign up for first-time donor bonuses.

3. Verify your information and submit your inquiry! DoNotPay will contact the clinic on your behalf and make sure your questions get answered.

Other Important Questions DoNotPay Helps Answer

DoNotPay assists with far more than the plasma donation process. We'll help you get any of your pressing questions answered, with a few examples including:

• How do I avoid getting charged for a free trial?
• What steps do I take if I've lost my dog?
• How can I get my pet licensed in my city?
• What is the process for requesting sick leave at work?
• What type of complaints can I file against my neighbor?

This is just the beginning! DoNotPay offers guides and how-tos for a variety of tasks, services, questions, and dilemmas to meet everyone's needs, no matter how big or small.