21 May What Is Iron IV and What Should You Expect From Your First Treatment?

Many normal diet foods are iron-rich – such as eggs, lentils, and spinach. However, it is still possible to have an iron deficiency. Because iron is a micronutrient that helps our bodies produce hemoglobin, an essential component of red blood cells that delivers oxygen to our body, an iron deficiency or iron-deficiency anemia can negatively affect our health and mental performance.

Iron IV is one of the most effective, fast-acting treatments available to replenish iron levels in the body. This makes iron IV ideal for those who experience an iron deficiency or have  iron-deficiency anemia.

What is an Iron Infusion?

An iron infusion delivers iron directly into a person’s bloodstream through a vein via intravenous (IV) administration. The main purpose is to rapidly increase iron levels in individuals who are iron deficient or have iron-deficiency anemia. 

Why is an Iron Infusion Done?

Iron infusions are done when oral iron supplements fail to correct iron levels or are not well tolerated. (1) The following are examples of conditions people might have that make iron infusions a better option:

•  Bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract (your gut). Iron IV in this critical case is the fastest way to replace iron.
• Inflammatory bowel disease when oral iron supplements further upsets the gastrointestinal tract.
• On dialysis and experiencing blood loss during the procedure. 
• Have iron-deficiency anemia and need to undergo a high blood loss surgery. 
• Have gluten intolerance (known as celiac disease)
• Have cancer and anemia and are taking an ESA (erythropoietin-stimulating agent).
• Have a vascular condition that results in a loss of a lot of blood.
• Iron deficiency issues during pregnancy.
• Severe anemia.
• Are taking medications known to block the absorption of iron.

Benefits of Iron IV Therapy

There are many benefits to iron IV therapy. Receiving iron IV therapy quickly brings your iron levels up to the healthy level needed for good health and body performance. Benefits include:

Increased Hemoglobin Levels: Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, which is a protein in red blood cells that carry oxygen. 

Boosts Energy and Reduces Fatigue: When there are low levels of oxygen in your bloodstream due to insufficient iron, it can lead to weakness, dizziness, and exhaustion. Iron IV therapy restores energy levels and reduces fatigue in people with iron-deficiency anemia.

Improves Cognitive Function: Iron is essential for brain function, concentration, and memory.  

Supports Immune Function: Iron helps your body fight infections by aiding in the production of white blood cells.

Enhances Athletic Performance: When sufficient iron levels exist, your muscles have the oxygen they need. Increased stamina and overall physical performance as well as faster muscle recovery are experienced.

Supports Healthy Pregnancy: Pregnant women need more iron for fetal development and to prevent anemia-related complications. Studies and trials on iron supplementation during pregnancy (1) indicate that healthy iron levels reduce the risk of low birth weight, premature delivery, and maternal fatigue.

Hair, Skin, and Nail Health: An iron deficiency can cause hair thinning, brittle nails, and pale skin. Iron IV therapy can restore healthy hair growth, strong nails, and vibrant skin.

How long do iron infusion benefits last?

Iron infusion benefits can be realized in several days to a week. In that time you may start to feel better as oxygen levels in your body increase due to getting enough iron. How sustainable this and other benefits last depends on your current iron deficiency level or whether you have iron-deficiency anemia. It can take two months to fix your iron level and correct anemia (2).

How does an Iron IV procedure work? 

Before undergoing iron IV therapy, your health provider will determine how much iron you need based on your weight and how much hemoglobin you have. 

What to expect before therapy: You should be prepared to discuss with your healthcare provider your medical conditions, any allergies you have, medications you take, and any non-prescription supplements.

During therapy: Your provider will clean the skin area where the IV will be inserted. After inserting the IV into a vein, the IV will be taped to prevent movement. The IV fluid bag is hung on a stand and the machine that pumps the fluid into your vein will be started. The therapy typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes; comfortable, warm clothing is recommended.

After therapy: Your healthcare provider will monitor you for about 30 minutes or more after the iron IV therapy concludes. Plan to have plenty of bed rest and drink plenty of fluids.

Iron Infusion Side Effects

The side effects of a standard IV infusion are generally minimal and vary from one person to another.  Common side effects of an iron infusion may include:

• Bloating in your arms, hands, lower legs, feet or face area
• Dizziness or lightheadedness when standing from a sitting or lying position
• Nausea or headaches
• Joint or muscle pain
• Constipation
• Rash, bruising at the injection site
• Low blood pressure
• Problems breathing
• Chest pain
• Anaphylaxis (a more severe reaction that includes difficulty breathing, itching or a rash over your entire body)

Your health provider may recommend taking an antiemetic pill before therapy to reduce the likelihood of nausea. Pain medication (such as Advil or Tylenol) can reduce muscle pain or chills.

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