Can You Donate Plasma With Asthma?

Can You Donate Plasma With Asthma?

Usually yes - most people with asthma can donate plasma in 2026, as long as their asthma is well-controlled and they're not experiencing symptoms.

The General Rule

• Well-controlled asthma: Usually eligible
• Rescue inhaler use: Typically OK
• Daily maintenance: Usually acceptable
• Active symptoms: Cannot donate

What "Well-Controlled" Means

You CAN Donate If:

• No recent attacks: No asthma attacks in last 2 weeks
• Normal breathing: Not wheezing or short of breath
• Stable medication: Same doses, working well
• Good exercise tolerance: Can do normal activities

Signs of Well-Controlled Asthma

• Rescue inhaler needed less than 2x/week
• No nighttime symptoms
• Normal daily activities
• Peak flow readings stable

Inhaler Rules by Type

Rescue Inhalers (Albuterol, ProAir, etc.)

• Generally OK: Most centers allow
• Day of donation: Can usually donate same day you use
• Frequent use: If using daily, asthma may not be well-controlled

Maintenance Inhalers (Advair, Symbicort, etc.)

• Usually acceptable: Preventive medications OK
• Steroid inhalers: Generally allowed
• Combination inhalers: Usually fine

Oral Steroids (Prednisone)

• Often disqualifying: While taking
• Waiting period: Usually 7 days after finishing
• Indicates severe asthma: May need evaluation

When Asthma Disqualifies You

Temporary Deferrals

• Current attack: Cannot donate during symptoms
• Recent ER visit: Wait 2-4 weeks typically
• Recent hospitalization: Wait until stable
• Current infection: Respiratory illness + asthma

Potential Permanent Deferrals

• Severe/brittle asthma: May be permanently deferred
• Frequent hospitalizations: Center discretion
• Oxygen-dependent: Usually disqualified

By Center

Donation Day Tips for Asthmatics

Before Donating

1. Take maintenance meds: As prescribed
2. Bring rescue inhaler: Just in case
3. Avoid triggers: Don't expose yourself before
4. Check air quality: High pollution days may worsen asthma

During Screening

• Be honest: Disclose your asthma
• List medications: All inhalers and pills
• Report symptoms: If any current issues

If Symptoms Occur

• Tell staff immediately: If you feel wheezy or tight
• Use rescue inhaler: If needed
• May need to stop: Safety first

Common Questions

Can I donate if I used my inhaler today?

Usually yes, if you feel fine otherwise. Rescue inhaler use isn't usually a deferral.

Do I need to bring my inhaler?

Recommended. Keep it with you in case you need it.

What if I have exercise-induced asthma?

Usually eligible if only triggered by exercise and not symptomatic at rest.