HCM and donating blood?

Posted by awana @awana, Nov 14 12:35pm

I have been a regular Red Cross blood donor but since being recently diagnosed with HCM I’ve read that anyone with this dx should not donate blood. I have an upcoming appt with cardiologist for further assessment and testing and will be asking about this.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) Support Group.

Debra, Volunteer Mentor | @karukgirl | Nov 15 2:05pm

@awana, that's a good idea that you plan to ask your doctor.
Depending on the severity of your own HCM may or may not prevent you from donating.

I would encourage you to listen to your doctor and your body.
The American Red Cross has criteria for donations from heart patients, and if you get the green light from your doctor you should feel better.

You mention you were recently diagnosed with this.
Having this heart disease can totally change things that you used to be able to do...so learning as much as you can and learning to accept what you have, and what you can and can no longer do, go hand in hand.