Symptoms of Adverse Reactions to Blood Transfusions
Adverse reactions to blood transfusions can be mild to severe and can occur almost immediately or days after the transfusion. Common symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, chest pain, hives, or itching. Other symptoms such as low blood pressure, confusion, fatigue, and rapid heart rate may also occur.
Diagnosing Adverse Reactions to Blood Transfusions
In order to diagnose an adverse reaction to a blood transfusion, a doctor will need to ask about the patient's medical history and do a physical exam. The doctor may also order blood tests to check for infections or other problems.
Treating Adverse Reactions to Blood Transfusions
The treatment for an adverse reaction to a blood transfusion will depend on the type and severity of the reaction. Mild reactions can often be treated with medications such as antihistamines or steroids. Severe reactions may require hospitalization and treatment with fluids, oxygen, and medications. In some cases, the blood transfusion may need to be stopped and the patient may need a blood transfusion with a different type of blood.
Preventing Adverse Reactions to Blood Transfusions
Adverse reactions to blood transfusions can be prevented by carefully screening donors and checking the compatibility of the blood before transfusing it to the patient. Healthcare providers should also closely monitor patients during and after a transfusion to ensure that any signs of an adverse reaction are identified and treated quickly.