Can the Elderly Get an Iron Infusion?
Iron is an essential component in our bodies’ health and proper function. While it has a hand in many things, iron is most known for its involvement in producing red blood cells and the distribution of oxygen to our muscles and vital organs.
Many are turning to iron IV infusion therapy because of its effectiveness and convenience. Despite its host of benefits for others, many who fall into the elderly category may wonder if an iron infusion would be right for them.
Let’s go over some of the benefits the elderly could experience from an iron infusion and some situations when it may be most recommended.
Get an Iron Infusion
Intravenous iron therapy is a convenient and effective method to restore normal iron levels in your body. Our team of medical professionals screens your lab results and determines the sufficient amount of treatments to normalize your iron levels. Our medical team will come to your location in the area and administer the Iron infusion.
Book Iron IVIncreased red blood cell production
As we age, the production of red blood cells tends to drop dramatically. A major factor of this has to do with diet and the tendency to consume less protein which contains high amounts of iron, as we get older. Receiving an infusion helps fill in the gaps in the diet as a result of aging.
Anti-aging
Reduced oxygen supply has been linked to age-related physical and cognitive deterioration.1 Iron infusions improves the low iron in elderly patients and aid the body in ensuring it can deliver enough oxygen to tissues and slow the effects associated with aging.
Increased strength and stamina
A lack of oxygen can cause muscle weakness and low endurance. Iron is required to get oxygen into the blood and transported throughout the body. Receiving an iron infusion could eliminate the muscle weakness that many experiences.
Improvement in mental acuity and focus
Having a good amount of iron can restore mental functions to peak performance and enhance our ability to focus. Regular iron infusions can increase reaction times, logical thinking, the ability to multitask, and fine motor skills.
Difficulty with taking and absorbing oral supplements
The method of taking supplements orally becomes less tolerable as people age. The discomfort in their digestive system can be enough to swear supplementation off altogether. To add to the problem, the ability to absorb nutrients in this fashion becomes less effective with age as well.
Iron infusions are the ideal solution for the elderly who struggle with these challenges. The IV method allows them to spare the digestive system of any discomfort; they benefit from 100% bioavailability.
Shortness of breath and difficulties in breathing
Interestingly enough, that shortness of breath you experience even when exerting minimal effort may be a sign of low iron. As mentioned earlier, this nutrient is essential when it comes to oxygen assimilation and distribution.
When we are low in iron, the body is unable to produce hemoglobin which is an important component of getting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body in a usable form. Receiving an iron infusion can help reduce shortness of breath and labored breathing.
Under proper guidance, it is clear that in most cases, an iron infusion for those that are advanced in age would be a massive benefit. Regular iron infusions could provide incredible benefits in improving recovery, longevity, and overall quality of life.
At-Home Iron Infusion With Drip Hydration
Iron IV therapy is an efficient and convenient way to increase your iron levels quickly and effectively. With Drip Hydration's at-home treatment option, our team will come to your location to administer the IV, whether that be your home or office. You will be able to relax and carry on with your daily activities, while we take care of the rest.
Contact Drip Hydration today and schedule your appointment, our experienced team is here to help you achieve optimal iron levels and improve your overall health.
Book Iron IVIron IV Infusion - Frequently Asked Questions
What is Iron infusion?
Iron IV Infusion is a therapy where an enriched saline bag with iron and other vitamins is intravenously administered.
Why would a patient need an iron infusion?
Patients typically need an iron infusion to correct low blood iron levels, although infusions may also be given in advance of a medical procedure. There are many potential reasons a patient might have low blood iron, including illness, certain medical conditions, side effects from other treatments, inability to absorb adequate iron from diet or supplements, and more.
What happens during an iron infusion?
A nurse will arrive at your location at your appointment time with the necessary equipment for your infusion. They will then administer a test dose via a needle and catheter to ensure that you do not have an allergic reaction to the ingredients in the infusion.
After your test dose, your infusion will begin. This process typically takes several hours. Following your infusion, you can resume activities as normal unless otherwise instructed.
How to prepare for an iron infusion
The most significant preparation required for an iron infusion is to ensure you set aside enough time for treatment. Unlike some procedures, there is no need to fast prior to this procedure.
- Iron infusions may take 3 or 4 hours, so bring a book, a game, music or podcasts, a computer, or sit near your TV so you can stay occupied during treatment.
- Eat breakfast, stay hydrated, and take your medication as normal unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may also want to consider having a blanket on hand if you get cold easily.
