Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy is also called a blood draw or venipuncture. It is used to diagnose many medical conditions and therapeutic phlebotomy to treat people with:

• Hemochromatosis
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
• Polycythemia vera
• Porphyria cutanea tarda
• Sickle cell disease

Typically there is no specific preparation for most blood tests. However, doctors will give instructions for some people who may need fasting for 8-12 hours ahead of time.

You should be OK afterward but still experience uncomfortable feelings, including:

• You might experience a vasovagal reaction, a physical response from your nervous system which could make you feel dizzy, sweaty, cause your heart rate or blood pressure to drop, and even faint.

• Relaxation techniques like deep breathing
• If dizzy afterward, lie or sit down and put your head between your knees until you stop feeling lightheaded.
• Redness or bruising where the needle may appear in the next day
• The spot might be a little sore, too
• The doctor will recommend drinking plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol, and not exercising for the next few hours.