An Introduction to IV Iron Infusion Benefits
There are many known iron infusion benefits, especially for those suffering from anemia. Click here to find out why an iron IV might be beneficial for you.
Keyword(s): iron infusion benefits
If you are low on iron or not consuming enough of the vital mineral, it can leave you feeling weak, tired, and cold. In fact, according to information from the World Health Organization, deficiencies in iron are the leading cause of anemia, the most common nutritional deficiency in the world.
Being one of the essential nutrients for humans, Iron is used in several different critical processes in the body, such as transporting oxygen, hormone production, and assisting in the immune system.
If you are low in iron, you can replenish it with IV therapy. Keep reading to discover the iron infusion benefits and what the process consists of.
What is Iron IV Therapy
Iron IV therapy is the process of infusing the mineral iron into the patient rather than taking it orally. The IV will generally be administered by a doctor or nurse that will insert a needle into the catheter located on the patient’s arm. The catheter is connected to an IV bag of iron via a tube.
Just like you would when receiving an IV hydration therapy, the IV iron therapy works in a very similar fashion, but instead of it being a mix of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, it contains iron. The iron helps to promote your body to produce more hemoglobin, the protein that’s tasked with carrying oxygen to the rest of your body.
In most instances, the process is entirely painless. You may only feel a pinch when the needle is first inserted. Other than that, the therapy is an easy, pain-free procedure.
Why take an Iron IV
According to information from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of patients going to their doctors and receiving anemia as their primary diagnosis is up to 2.8 million individuals.
To be diagnosed as anemic means that you don’t have the usual amount of red blood cells required to transport oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. The condition can also have several distinct symptoms, including:
- Feeling tired
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Cold hands or feet
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Pale skin
- And headaches
Some of these symptoms can feel mild and can also often get confused with other conditions. However, if the symptoms begin to worsen, they can have severe implications on your health.
IV Iron Therapy Benefits
If you are anemic or even low on iron, utilizing iron IV therapy can be a good idea to replenish the iron levels in your blood. Getting your blood iron levels back to an average level can bring about some incredible benefits for users. A few of these include:
Quickly Replenish Iron Levels
One of the most significant advantages of IV iron therapy is the ability to replenish the iron levels in your body relatively quickly compared to other types of treatments. For example, the most popular method of obtaining iron is typically through supplement forms such as pills or tablets.
One problem with iron pills is the gastrointestinal side effects that can occur. Nausea, abdominal discomfort, and constipation are common occurrences while taking oral iron. These side effects are generally avoided with IV Iron.
Also, the absorption can be interfered with when taken with calcium. So if you were to take an iron supplement with a glass of milk, you could be completely wiping out the benefits of taking it.
Another problem with taking iron tablets is that it takes a while for the mineral to build up in your body. With IV iron therapy, you won’t have to worry about anything interfering, and it’s much quicker absorbing than if you were to supplement.
Improved Energy Levels
Depending on the severity of the anemia of iron deficiency, the more you will feel the effects of the treatment. This could mean, for some, better energy levels and less fatigue.
Since the iron levels in your body are being replenished, your body has enough of the mineral, which gives the red blood cells the ability to carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. This movement of oxygen is essential for life, and if the process is interfered with, it can leave you feeling drained and lethargic.
Easier Time Breathing
Not only will iron therapy help to improve your energy levels, but it can also make it easier for you to breathe. Since your body is now getting the correct amount of oxygen flowing through your blood to the rest of the body, it will feel easier to breathe. If you are low on iron, you may notice a shortness of breath.
FAQ’s
Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions to better understand the process.
How Long Does it Take?
The procedure will take anywhere between 45 to 60 minutes to administer 1 liter of fluid. Then, after the procedure is complete, you will stay an additional 30 minutes to be monitored for any reactions.
Can I Drive After?
After the IV is completed, you are asked not to drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 3 hours. You are also asked to be picked up by a different driver. Or, you have the option of using a rideshare program such as Uber or Lyft.
If you want to avoid the drive, you can always opt to have the procedure done at your house.
When Will I Notice Results?
It depends on the severity of the deficiency or anemia. It’s hard to specify how long it will take with so many different variables. The iron IV will help stimulate the body to produce more hemoglobin, which is a process and can take time for the levels to build up.
Minimally, it will take around 3 to 5 days for the levels to begin to increase. And in about 10 to 14 days, it will reach maximum effects.
Ready to Experience the Iron Infusion Benefits for Yourself
Getting an iron IV infusion can help you feel your best. When you have low iron levels in your blood, it can make you feel tired, drained, and weak. Luckily, there are easier ways to replenish your levels and get you back on track.
If you’re ready to experience the iron infusion benefits for yourself, contact us today, and we can help you get started.