Say Goodbye to Fainting When Donating Blood

Say Goodbye to Fainting When Donating with Applied Muscle Tension

Are you a first-time donor and worried about fainting during your blood donation? Have you donated before and felt faint during the donation process? Some donors deal with uncomfortable symptoms like feeling dizzy, lightheaded or nauseous. These symptoms are often caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate, known as a vasovagal reaction. Some studies suggest that a series of simple exercises, called applied muscle tension (AMT), can reduce these symptoms.

What Is Applied Muscle Tension (AMT)?

Applied muscle tension is a series of exercises that may prevent a drop in blood pressure during a triggering event – for most donors, this is when the needle goes in and when it comes out.  It can also be used whenever a donor feels faint, including during the donation, standing up after the donation, or in the recovery area. 

You’ll be asked to:

1. Cross your legs
2. Squeeze your knees and tense your abdominal muscles for five seconds
3. Relax for five seconds
4. Repeat the process

These simple exercises can increase a donor’s blood pressure within two to three seconds and help prevent the occurrence of vasovagal symptoms. In addition to using this technique when the needle is going in or coming out, you can start AMT anytime you begin to experience symptoms.

The American Red Cross strives to make each donation appointment a pleasant experience so that you’re excited to schedule again. AMT offers a way to minimize unwanted symptoms, creating a less stressful donation.

If you’re worried about fainting during the donation process, you aren’t alone. Check out Ava Arteaga’s story about donating for the first time. 

Ready to donate blood?