How Long Should You Get Iron Infusion Therapy?
Iron infusion therapy is a great alternative to supplementing iron orally, especially for people suffering from iron-deficiency anemia or who have suffered significant blood loss. It is typically recommended by a medical professional depending on the patient’s medical history and iron needs.
What is iron infusion therapy?
For faster results, doctors would recommend iron infusion therapy in place of taking iron pills for supplements. Since it is introduced to the body intravenously, there is minimal downtime, and it guarantees a higher absorption rate than ingesting iron orally. Iron infusion is also recommended for people who have digestive issues and cannot absorb iron through ingesting. Depending on the severity of the need, the iron infusion can be a single session or can last several months. 1
What are the benefits of iron infusion therapy?
Besides the obvious benefit of increasing iron levels in the body, patients who have undergone iron infusion therapy also enjoy easier breathing and an increase in their energy levels. Once the iron is infused into the blood, it can also promote better circulation, which can lead your organs to perform better.
What are the side effects of iron infusion?
Like any other treatment, minimal side effects can arise after an iron infusion session. This can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and the presence of a metallic taste in your mouth. These symptoms typically go away after a few days, but if it persists, you should let your doctor know to get treatment and to determine if there are underlying health issues that need to be addressed. Consulting with a doctor before undergoing iron infusion treatment is recommended to minimize the side effects that might arise from it.
How many iron infusions do you need?
The required number of iron infusions is contingent upon the extent of the iron shortage and the individual’s reaction to the treatment. Some individuals may only a single infusion, while others can require numerous infusions, usually between 2 to 4 sessions, to replenish their iron levels to a normal range. The precise quantity should be decided by a healthcare professional according to the individual requirements of the patient.
How long does an iron infusion last?
Iron infusion therapy sessions usually last 3-4 hours which is longer compared to other IV treatments. The reason for this is the slow introduction to the body will minimize the potential side effects and complications that might arise from the treatment.
Depending on the patient’s needs, iron infusion therapy might be for a shorter period or prolonged periods.
If a patient is going in for surgery but needs iron infusion beforehand, the session required will be a short one because there is no underlying medical condition that needs to be addressed. On the other hand, if a person is suffering from iron-deficiency anemia, it will take several sessions over weeks to get back to desired iron levels.
Women who have heavy periods suffer from blood loss, and since this is an ongoing thing, the iron infusions will probably last longer. The same thing goes for people who need iron infusions because of chronic conditions or illnesses.
Before undergoing any iron infusion treatments, it is important to consult with a medical doctor so that your full medical history and current medical condition will be assessed. The doctor will come up with a proper treatment plan, and they can make recommendations on how long you should receive iron infusion therapy.
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.
