Kickas.org Forums Ankylosing Spondylitis General Discussion #1 AS Web Support Group Blood donation refused

Isn't that something! It is kinda disappointing, though.

I do not have high blood pressure. Other than the scoliosis, I am in perfect health. Sure I do feel depressed some days but they soon pass when I focus on something important to myself, like my studies.

donating bone marrow

Here is a link from the National Marrow Donor Registry. I've been listed since I donated marrow for my son 20 yrs ago. It appears that was the only time as I have to be disqualified now.

As for stem cell transplants, theoretically that could be a cure, as the immune system is "replaced". But chemo to do that is at least 10x the dose strength as chemo for cancer. It is brutal. I've seen the effects. If you have any health issues at all (besides the AS), it becomes even more dangerous. So if you get it while you are young and newly diagnosed (still no complications), it MAY be a little easier, but after you've had some complications (fractures, breathing problems), it would be very dangerous. And who would want to go through that sort of procedure (if it were approved by FDA, which it's not) when they don't know how severe a disease they would develop?

This was discussed once under another thread and I refrained from joining and stating this opinion, but it's a dangerous procedure, not to be taken lightly.

That said, Lisa, that was a terrible thing for that tech to tell you. At those blood drives, the techs are just that...techs. They have traing for phlebotomy and the blood donating procedures. They are not nurses and shouldn't be passing themselves off as such. And it isn't their call as to whether you should come back or not. Most likely, the needle was up against one of the natural valves that are throughout each vein. A little repositioning (gently) could possibly restore the flow.

Here is what the Red Cross (USA) uses to screen blood donors. It would appear that none of the meds for AS would disqualify, except aspirin and feldene. Nor would the autoimmune status cause a problem. So you USA people can donate.

blood donation criteria

Gee, all this time I was told on an IBD site that we couldn't donate. I will call my local blood bank and check it out. I was getting close to my first gallon when I stopped donating.

Yah, I'm O-, universal donor and much sought after. Can't donate because of the AS. Because no-one knows the underlying cause and how it passes genetically, they fear our blood might be what passes it on. Stupid. Yes.

Sorry you're in the same boat.

Warm hugs,

I am also O- but now only me will be able to enjoy my blood. <dracula laugh here> Just came back from Physio. Received exercises to do daily. Therapist said I've gotten much more stiffer compared to last year. Physio starts weekly beginning next week. She also confirmed with me the bump between my breasts is my twisted ribcage. All neurological testing I passed. Said my strength in my legs is incredible! I know it is a leftover from my weight lifting days.

Oh wow! According to their blood donation criteria, I can donate! Only problem is Wrong Country! My country will not allow me to donate. *sniff*

I tried to donate plasma this fall and was told that I could not donate because of the AS. They said it was not because something was wrong with my plasma, it's because they are afraid that donating might make us sicker, weaker, or have a flare up. I was really disapointed too.

i tried at church awhile back and because of mtx they wouldn't let me but still gave me an OU shirt.

I cannot donate blood because AS keeps my red blood cells low.