Blood Basics
A living tissue, our blood delivers oxygen to our organs, fights infections and prevents us from bleeding excessively when a blood vessel is damaged.
Our red and white blood cells and platelets are created in the soft, squishy material found inside our bones, called bone marrow. They make up about half the solid substances found in our blood, which travels through our bodys arteries and veins. The other half of our blood consists of a yellowish liquid called plasma, which carries red blood cells, nutrients, proteins, hormones and waste products.
Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that releases oxygen to tissues as it travels in our blood vessels. White blood cells travel in and out of our bloodstream to fight germs, while platelets work with substances called clotting factors to keep us from bleeding to death when we are injured.
With more than a gallon of blood circulating in our body, we can be affected by more than a dozen blood disorders, such as anemia and hemophilia.
Recently Answered
- Q What diseases cause low blood platelets?
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There are many conditions that can cause low blood platelets such as problems that affect the spleen, bone marrow, or the immune system. Conditions that can cause low blood platelets include: aplastic anemia, viruses, myelodysplasia, pregnancy,... Full Answer
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- Q What herbs and supplements can interact with transfer factor?
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Transfer factor may lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised when using herbs or supplements that may also lower blood sugar. Blood glucose levels may require monitoring, and doses may need adjustment.Transfer factor may also interact with... Full Answer
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- Q What medications can interact with transfer factor?
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Transfer factor may lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised when using medications that may also lower blood sugar. Patients taking insulin or drugs for diabetes by mouth should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare professional, including... Full Answer
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- Q Can I take transfer factor if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
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Transfer factor is not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to a lack of available scientific evidence.You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not... Full Answer
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- Q Can transfer factor cause an allergic reaction?
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Avoid with known allergy or hypersensitivity to transfer factor or any of its constituents.You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice,... Full Answer
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- Q How much should I give, If I give my child transfer factor?
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Children (under 18 years old):Transfer factor has been inhaled, as well as taken by mouth and by injection under the skin. Transfer factor therapy should be provided by a reputable source and be supervised by a qualified healthcare provider.You should... Full Answer
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- Q How much should I take, if I take transfer factor?
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Adults (18 years and older):Transfer factor has been inhaled, as well as taken by mouth and by injection under the skin or into a muscle. Transfer factor therapy should be provided by a reputable source and be supervised by a qualified healthcare... Full Answer
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- Q What is transfer factor?
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Transfer factor is defined as a substance in white blood cells that can transfer immunity from an immune or sensitized person to a nonimmune or nonsensitized individual. White blood cells are lysed, or burst, and the contents are processed into a tablet... Full Answer
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- Q How is cord blood used?
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Cord blood is the blood left in the umbilical cord and placenta after the baby is born. Formerly discarded as medical waste, stem cells in cord blood are now used to treat more than 70 diseases, including blood and immune system disorders, leukemia... Full Answer
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- Q What do I need to know about blood transfusions for my baby in the NICU?
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A blood transfusion is a procedure to put blood or blood products from a donor into your baby’s body in the NICU. The donor blood comes from a blood bank and is tested to make sure it’s right for your baby. If your baby needs a blood... Full Answer
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