Blood is life — and sometimes, life needs a little help. A blood transfusion is a medical procedure where donated blood is given to someone through an intravenous (IV) line. It’s a routine, life-saving treatment that helps people recover from illness, injury, or surgery.
But why would someone need a blood transfusion? Let’s explore the most common reasons.
Accidents, injuries, or major surgeries can cause heavy bleeding. In such emergencies, a transfusion helps replace lost blood quickly, restoring blood pressure and oxygen levels.
Anemia occurs when you don’t have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin. Severe anemia — caused by chronic diseases, nutritional deficiencies, or internal bleeding — may require transfusions to boost red blood cell levels and energy.
Cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or bone marrow transplants, often need transfusions. These treatments can reduce the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, making transfusions vital for recovery and strength.
Conditions like hemophilia, thalassemia, or platelet disorders prevent blood from clotting properly. Patients may need transfusions of platelets, plasma, or specific clotting factors to prevent dangerous bleeding.
In some high-risk deliveries or C-sections, mothers may experience significant blood loss. Timely transfusions can save both the mother and baby.
Patients with chronic liver or kidney disease may develop anemia or coagulation problems, requiring blood or plasma transfusions to stabilize their condition.