what happens to you after you donate bone marrow

by Narciso Stiedemann 10 min read

The bone marrow donation process. Donors usually go home the same day of the surgery and can return to normal activity within 1 week. Common side effects include nausea, headache, and fatigue, most often related to the anesthesia. Bruising or discomfort in the lower back is also common.

Donors may experience headaches or bone and muscle pain, similar to a cold or the flu, for several days before collection. These are side effects of the filgrastim injections that disappear shortly after donation. Other common side effects are nausea, trouble sleeping and tiredness.

Full Answer

What are the side effects of donating bone marrow?

When you donate bone marrow or PBSC, you join a community of supporters dedicated to being the cure for patients with blood cancers, like leukemia. After donation, you can continue to support the cause by: Joining our social media communities and telling others about your donation experience; Attending events; Becoming a volunteer

What is painful about donating bone marrow?

A University of Pennsylvania study measured the psychological impact of bereavement on sibling bone marrow donors. Prior to donation, all donors reported high levels of self-esteem, mastery, happiness, and satisfaction. Following donation, donors whose sibling-recipient died felt less positively about the value of their donation over time.

What is the average life expectancy after bone marrow transplant?

Nov 03, 2019 · Common unintended effects of marrow donation reported 2 days after donation: Back or hip ache 84%, Fatigue 61%, Throat ache 32%, Muscle ache 24%, Insomnia 15%, Headache 14%, Dizziness 10%, Loss of urge for food 10%, Nausea 9%. Learn extra about what occurs after you donate.

What are the risks of bone marrow donation?

Possible side effects and recovery with marrow donation. Common side effects of marrow donation reported 2 days after donation: Back or hip pain 84%, Fatigue 61%, Throat pain 32%, Muscle pain 24%, Insomnia 15%, Headache 14%, Dizziness 10%, Loss of …

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Can you live a normal life after donating bone marrow?

Your marrow will return to normal levels within a few weeks. It's important to note that bone marrow donor recovery times will vary depending on the individual and the type of donation. PBSC donation: The median time to full recovery for a PBSC donation is one week (seven days).

When you donate bone marrow does it grow back?

There is no long-term recovery and donors resume a normal routine in one to three days. Your bone marrow and stem cells grow back on their own, and your recipient gains a second chance at life.Apr 26, 2019

Can donated bone marrow change your DNA?

After a bone marrow transplant, a man with leukemia found that his donor's DNA traveled to unexpected parts of his body. A crime lab is now studying the case. Three months after his bone marrow transplant, Chris Long of Reno, Nev., learned that the DNA in his blood had changed.Dec 12, 2019

Is bone marrow harvesting painful?

This procedure isn't painful and is done while you're awake. It takes around 3 hours and may need to be repeated the next day if not enough cells are removed the first time.

Is bone marrow extraction painful?

With local anesthesia, bone marrow aspiration, in particular, can cause brief, but sharp, pain. Many people choose to also have light sedation for additional pain relief. If you're anxious about pain, you may be given an IV medication so that you're either completely or partially sedated during the bone marrow exam.Jan 6, 2021

Can you have a baby after bone marrow transplant?

ANSWER. Success in becoming pregnant after stem cell transplantation depends on such factors as cumulative doses of chemotherapy and radiation and mother's age at time of transplant. There is increased risk of prematurity, low birth weight, and spontaneous abortion. Pregnancy should be managed as high risk.

Can your blood type change after a bone marrow transplant?

Usually, you will have the same blood type all of your life. However, in some cases, the blood types have changed. This has been due to unusual circumstances, such as having a bone marrow transplant or getting certain types of cancers or infections. Not all of the changes in blood type are permanent.May 18, 2020

What is a chimera?

A chimera is essentially a single organism that's made up of cells from two or more "individuals"—that is, it contains two sets of DNA, with the code to make two separate organisms. One way that chimeras can happen naturally in humans is that a fetus can absorb its twin.Aug 8, 2016

What are the risks of bone marrow donation?

Risks related to donating bone marrow are mostly related to the risk of the surgical procedure. Anytime you have surgery, there are the risks of general anesthesia as well as the risk of bleeding and infection. There is also the risk that the procedure could cause injury to nerves and blood vessels near the site of the marrow withdrawal ...

How many people have complications from bone marrow donation?

According to the National Marrow Donor Program, 2.4% of people who donate bone marrow experience a serious complication. Very few bone marrow donors suffer any long-term complications from their donation.

How is bone marrow collected?

To understand the potential risks of donating bone marrow, it's helpful to talk briefly about the bone marrow collection process. Bone marrow is taken (doctors call it "harvested") through a needle which is inserted into your hip. (Your bone marrow is on the inside of large bones in your body such as your hip.)

How long does it take to recover from a syringe surgery?

The procedure may be done as an outpatient, or you may spend a few days in the hospital. Some medical centers recommend taking 7 to 10 days off of work following the procedure, but some people feel up to returning to work much sooner.

Is bone marrow donation good for everyone?

The risks of bone marrow donation are small, but the benefits to those who may receive your donation can be priceless. That said, donating bone marrow is not for everyone, and it's important that you honor yourself in whatever choice you make.

What is bone marrow donation?

Bone marrow donation is one of two methods of collecting blood forming cells for bone marrow transplants. Bone marrow donation is a surgical procedure that takes place in a hospital operating room. Doctors use needles to withdraw liquid marrow (where the body’s blood-forming cells are made) from both sides of the back of your pelvic bone.

Why is bone marrow donation important?

Bone marrow donation is an important commitment to help save a life. Understanding the process, recovery and side effects can help you decide if donating is right for you.

How long does it take to donate bone marrow?

The total time commitment for the donation process is estimated to be 20 to 30 hours over four to six weeks, not including any travel time.

What is bone marrow transplant?

A bone marrow transplant is a type of stem cell transplant in which the stem cells are collected (harvested) from bone marrow. After being removed from the donor, they’re transplanted into the recipient.

What are the side effects of anesthesia?

Some potential side effects from general anesthesia are: sore throat due to the breathing tube. mild nausea. vomiting. Regional anesthesia can cause headache and a temporary drop in blood pressure. Some side effects of marrow donation include: bruising at the incision site.

How long does it take to set up a donation account?

You can set up an account, which includes a brief history of your health and contact information. It should take about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can call them at 800-MARROW2 (800-627-7692). The organization can provide details about the donation process and let you know what to do next.

How old do you have to be to be a donor?

A screening process will help ensure that you’re healthy enough and that the procedure will be safe for you and the recipient. Anyone between 18 and 60 years old can register to be a donor. People between 18 and 44 tend to produce more and higher quality cells than older individuals.

Is it safe to have anesthesia?

The most serious risks have to do with anesthesia. General anesthesia is usually safe, and most people come through without problems. But some people have a bad reaction to it, particularly when there’s a serious underlying condition or the procedure is extensive.

Can you be awake during a syringe surgery?

Alternatively, they can use regional anesthesia. You’ll be awake, but you won’t feel anything.

What are the side effects of bone marrow donation?

After a marrow donation common side effects such as back or hip pain, fatigue, throat or muscle pain resolve within a week but can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

How long does it take to donate blood?

A peripheral blood donation involves five days of injections that are done at home prior to donation. Your donation may take up to eight hours in one day.

How long does it take to get a bone marrow transplant?

It usually takes 1 or 2 hours. You can go home once you wake up and your doctor says it’s OK. If you’re donating bone marrow, being put to sleep for the surgery may cause complications. You might feel tired or weak for a few days after.

How long does it take for a stem cell to come back?

Then they’ll run it through a machine to take out the stem cells (apheresis) and put what’s left back into your body. This usually takes 1 to 2 hours. You’ll likely do this two to four times. The exact number depends on how many stem cells are needed.

What is stem cell transplant?

A stem cell transplant is when doctors take some of your blood-forming cells to replace damaged or diseased bone marrow for yourself or someone else whose marrow doesn’t make enough of them. The stem cells can be taken from your blood or transplanted from your bone marrow. That’s why a stem cell transplant is also called a bone marrow ...

Can you donate blood to someone else?

If you donate to someone else, you may have to pay some of the costs of screening. The person who gets your blood cells or their health insurance will pay for the actual procedure. Under federal law, you can’t be paid for donating bone marrow or blood stem cells. In some states, your employer must give you time off from work to make the donation. ...

How long does it take for bone marrow to heal?

You can take a pain reliever for the discomfort. You'll likely be able to get back to your normal routine within a couple of days, but it may take a couple of weeks before you feel fully recovered.

How long does it take to feel sore after bone marrow transplant?

After the surgery, you might feel tired or weak and have trouble walking for a few days. The area where the bone marrow was taken out might feel sore for a few days.

What are the two types of stem cells?

There are two broad types of stem cells: embryonic and bone marrow stem cells. Embryonic stem cells are studied in therapeutic cloning and other types of research. Bone marrow stem cells are formed and mature in the bone marrow and are then released into the bloodstream. This type of stem cell is used in the treatment of cancers.

What is the best treatment for leukemia?

Every year, thousands of people in the U.S. are diagnosed with life-threatening diseases, such as leukemia or lymphoma, for which a stem cell transplant is the best or the only treatment. Donated blood stem cells are needed for these transplants.

How long does it take for pain to go away after stopping a syringe?

This medicine can cause side effects, such as bone pain, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. These usually disappear within a couple of days after you stop the injections. You can take a pain reliever for the discomfort. If that doesn't help, your doctor can prescribe another pain medicine for you.

What is peripheral blood stem cell donation?

Peripheral blood stem cell donation. If blood stem cells are going to be collected directly from your blood, you'll be given injections of a medication to stimulate the production of blood stem cells so that more of them are circulating in your bloodstream.

How long does it take to get stem cells out of bone?

Needles will be inserted through the skin and into the bone to draw the marrow out of the bone. This process usually takes one to two hours.

Why is blood donation important?

Blood donation also helps regulate iron levels in the body. Too much iron can be damaging to blood vessels, and a regular decrease of iron-rich blood and subsequent replenishment due to blood donation can lead to a more beneficial lower iron level. Men tend to store more iron in their bodies than women, which is why iron deficiency is rare in men.

Why do people donate blood?

This may be partly because donating blood helps blood flow, giving it a lower viscosity (resistance) and thus making it less damaging to blood vessels. There are other ways that donating blood impacts your heart as well. Blood donation also helps regulate iron levels in the body.

What is blood donation?

Blood donation is a lifesaving gift and a beneficial procedure, for both recipient and donor. What happens to your body when you donate blood?

How to prepare for blood donation?

To minimize any adverse reactions, it is important to prepare for your blood donation by eating an iron-rich meal and drinking plenty of fluids. You will also want to replace fluids immediately after donating, and to keep the body well-nourished. As levels return to normal, any discomfort subsides. Long-term benefits to your body ...

Who is Paul Ramey?

Paul Ramey is a OneBlood Graphic Designer, as well as a published author ( Edgar Wilde and the Lost Grimoire) and music recording artist ( Nothing On Earth ). Paul is very proud to be part of OneBlood’s lifesaving team.

Is blood donation good for you?

Long-term benefits to your body when you donate blood. Studies reveal many possible benefits of regular blood donation. According to the American Journal of Epidemiology, 88% of blood donors are less likely to suffer a heart attack.

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Collection Methods

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To understand the potential risks of donating bone marrow, it's helpful to talk briefly about the bone marrow collection process. Bone marrow is taken (doctors call it "harvested") through a needle which is inserted into your hip. (Your bone marrow is on the inside of large bones in your body such as your hip.) This is usually done u…
See more on verywellhealth.com

The Potential Risks

  • Risks related to donating bone marrow are mostly related to the risk of the surgical procedure. Anytime you have surgery, there are the risks of general anesthesiaas well as the risk of bleeding and infection. There is also the risk that the procedure could cause injury to nerves and blood vessels near the site of the marrow withdrawal and damage to the bone.
See more on verywellhealth.com

Mild Side effects/risks

  • After donating bone marrow you may be sore in the region of your hip for a week or slightly more. Among those who donated bone marrow as part of the National Marrow Donor Program, the majority of people experienced some back and hip pain for a few days, as well as fatigue. Side effects of anesthesia may also include a sore throat and nausea. The pr...
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Severe Side effects/risks

  • According to the National Marrow Donor Program, 2.4% of people who donate bone marrow experience a serious complication. Very few bone marrow donors suffer any long-term complications from their donation. Around the world, researchers looked at over 27,000 people who had donated bone marrow in 35 countries. Of these people, there was one death and 12 ser…
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Can You Meet The recipient?

  • If you are donating for an anonymous recipient, you may be wondering if you will have the chance to meet the person whose life you may have saved. Most agencies have fairly strict regulations about patient-donor contact, but you may wish to check out heartwarming stories of patients and donors meeting.
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The Benefits

  • When considering any issue, it's important to weigh the risks against the benefits. The risks of bone marrow donation are small, but the benefits to those who may receive your donation can be priceless. That said, donating bone marrow is not for everyone, and it's important that you honor yourself in whatever choice you make. Only you can make the decision that is right for you.
See more on verywellhealth.com

Overview

  • If you are planning to donate stem cells, you have agreed to allow doctors to draw bone marrow stem cells from either your blood or bone marrow for transplantation. There are two broad types of stem cells: embryonic and bone marrow stem cells. Embryonic stem cells are studied in therapeutic cloning and other types of research. Bone marrow stem cells are formed and matur…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Why It's Done

  • Every year, thousands of people in the U.S. are diagnosed with life-threatening diseases, such as leukemia or lymphoma, for which a stem cell transplant is the best or the only treatment. Donated blood stem cells are needed for these transplants. You might be considering donating blood or bone marrow because someone in your family needs a stem cell transplant and doctors think yo…
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Risks

  • Bone marrow donation
    Bone marrow stem cells are collected from the posterior section of the pelvic bone under general anesthesia. The most serious risk associated with donating bone marrow involves the use and effects of anesthesia during surgery. After the surgery, you might feel tired or weak and have tro…
  • Peripheral blood stem cell donation
    The risks of this type of stem cell donation are minimal. Before the donation, you'll get injections of a medicine that increases the number of stem cells in your blood. This medicine can cause side effects, such as bone pain, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. These usuall…
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How You Prepare

  • If you want to donate stem cells, you can talk to your doctor or contact the National Marrow Donor Program, a federally funded nonprofit organization that keeps a database of volunteers who are willing to donate. If you decide to donate, the process and possible risks of donating will be explained to you. You will then be asked to sign a consent form. You can choose to sign or not. …
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What You Can Expect

  • Bone marrow donation
    Collecting stem cells from bone marrow is a type of surgery and is done in the operating room. You'll be given an anesthetic for the procedure. Needles will be inserted through the skin and into the bone to draw the marrow out of the bone. This process usually takes one to two hours. Afte…
  • Peripheral blood stem cell donation
    If blood stem cells are going to be collected directly from your blood, you'll be given injections of a medication to stimulate the production of blood stem cells so that more of them are circulating in your bloodstream. The medication is usually started several days before you're going to donate. …
See more on mayoclinic.org

Results

  • Recovery times vary depending on the individual and type of donation. But most blood stem cell donors are able to return to their usual activities within a few days to a week after donation.
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Clinical Trials

  • Explore Mayo Clinic studiesof tests and procedures to help prevent, detect, treat or manage conditions.
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