Specific health scenarios require an iron infusion, which is typically recommended for people suffering from iron-deficiency anemia. An iron infusion is typically performed in a hospital or medical office, but nowadays, it can also be administered within the comfort of your home through the aid of concierge medical services.
What is an iron infusion?
An iron infusion is a procedure where iron is introduced intravenously to boost iron levels in the body. Iron infusions are typically recommended for people who are suffering from iron-deficiency anemia. The most common prescription to treat iron-deficiency anemia is iron pills, but the doctor can sometimes prescribe iron infusions if the patient’s iron levels are extremely low because it is a faster alternative than taking iron supplements.
Iron infusions are also recommended for patients who cannot ingest iron orally because they have underlying digestive issues. Patients who cannot absorb iron due to blood loss and need to restore their iron levels faster are also prime candidates for an iron infusion.
Where can you get an iron infusion?
Iron infusions are traditionally obtained in a medical office or hospital and are administered by a medical professional. With the popularity of medical concierge services rising in the last few years, it is possible to get the treatment in-home by having a concierge doctor go to your home.
This is a more convenient manner of receiving the treatment because you don’t have to leave your home and risk the chance of exposure to illnesses and viruses outside. Since it is done in your home, you can control the safety of the environment, and it can lead to lesser risks. A concierge doctor offers personalized services, and they can do everything that a traditional doctor can do. Since they have fewer patients, they can establish a relationship with their patients, which helps if you are undergoing treatment because they can be there for moral support as well.
Since the pandemic, in-home medical services have slowly become the new norm, and many companies offer them. In choosing the right company, you should opt for a reputable one that will look out for your best interests.
What to expect during an in-home iron infusion?
Iron infusions that are performed in-home carry the same process as any standard IV treatments. The main difference is that the nurse or medical professional will also perform a test dose to ensure that the patient will not have any allergic reaction to the iron. The typical timeframe for iron infusion sessions is 3-4 hours.
The process starts with introducing the needle that is required to insert a small tube into the vein. This small tube is the vessel where iron will be introduced to the bloodstream. This small tube is known as a catheter and is usually attached to the hand or arm. Once inserted, the needle will be removed, which leaves the catheter in place in the vein.
The catheter is attached to the long tube that is connected to an IV bag containing the iron. The iron in the IV bag is typically diluted in a saline solution. The actual process itself is safe and painless. You might feel a small pinch when the needle breaks the skin and a little pressure when the infusion starts.
How long does an iron infusion last?
Compared to other IV treatments, iron infusions take longer and will sometimes last for 3-4 hours. There are instances where the infusion time might be longer than that because it depends on the doctor’s recommendation and how much iron is needed. The slow infusion rate is purposely done to avoid any complications and minimize the side effects.
There are instances where repeated treatments are needed, especially when your body is in dire need of iron.
What are the benefits of iron infusion?
For people suffering from anemia, iron supplements and eating food rich in iron is the recommended route to increase iron levels. If this is not enough, an iron infusion will be prescribed by a doctor to restore iron levels quickly.
Iron infusions also bring increased energy levels and easier breathing because of the increased iron in the bloodstream.
This type of treatment can also benefit women who suffer from heavy periods, which leads to blood loss. In this case, regular iron infusions might be recommended by the doctor.
Are there side effects to iron infusion?
As with any other treatment, there is a possibility of side effects in iron infusion patients. The probability of having side effects is small, but some people will feel dizzy, nauseous, and have shortness of breath after a treatment session. Other side effects include swelling of the injection site and headaches. Most people, after iron infusions, feel fine and can resume performing normal activities.
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.
