Blood transfusion reaction

Overview

Most reactions are mild, like hives or fever. Rare reactions can affect breathing or kidneys.

Staff check blood type and watch closely during transfusions.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Trouble breathing
• Fever or chills during transfusion

Less common

• Hives
• Back pain

Look up a symptom: Fever

When to get medical care

Causes

Immune reaction.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Tell your nurse
• Tell the nurse right away if you feel unwell

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Tell staff about past reactions

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a hematologist (blood doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• People with many transfusions: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most reactions are quickly treated.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Blood transfusion reaction