IV Iron Therapy
What is Iron?
Iron is an essential mineral that the body needs to make red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues, so when iron levels are low, it can lead to anemia. Anemia can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
How are low Iron levels treated?
There are two main ways to treat iron deficiency anemia: oral iron supplements and IV iron therapy. Oral iron supplements are the most common treatment, but they can be difficult to absorb and can cause side effects such as constipation and nausea. IV iron therapy is a more effective way to raise iron levels and is often better tolerated than oral supplements and is now available now at Meadows Health and Wellness.
How does IV Iron differ from oral supplements?
While oral supplements can be an effective treatment, there are certain situations where IV therapy may be the better choice.
It is more effective than oral iron supplements at raising iron levels.
It is faster-acting than oral iron supplements.
It is better tolerated than oral iron supplements.
It can be given to people who cannot tolerate oral iron supplements.
It can be given to people who have severe anemia.
How does IV treatment work?
IV iron therapy is typically given as a series of infusions over several weeks. The number of infusions and the amount of iron given will vary depending on the individual's needs. It is important to note that the cause of anemia and iron deficiency must be investigated as part of IV iron therapy but here are some more specific benefits to IV Iron:
Improved energy levels: IV iron can help to improve energy levels by increasing the amount of oxygen that is available to the body's cells. This is because iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood.
Reduced fatigue: IV iron can help to reduce fatigue by improving the body's ability to produce energy. This is especially beneficial for people who are experiencing anemia, which is a condition that is characterized by low levels of iron in the blood.
Improved cognitive function: IV iron can help to improve cognitive function by increasing the amount of oxygen that is available to the brain. This is because iron is essential for the production of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit messages between brain cells.
Improved athletic performance: IV iron can help to improve athletic performance by increasing the amount of oxygen that is available to the muscles. This is because iron is essential for the production of ATP, which is the body's main source of energy.
Improved skin health: IV iron can help to improve skin health by increasing the amount of oxygen that is available to the skin cells. This is because iron is essential for the production of collagen, which is a protein that gives skin its strength and elasticity.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about IV iron therapy:
You should not receive IV iron if you have a history of an allergic reaction to iron or any other metal.
You should tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any other medical conditions.
You may need to avoid taking certain medications, such as aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), before and after your IV iron infusion.
If you are interested in learning more about Iron IV therapy, let us know. We’ll will help you determine if it’s is right for you and your comprehensive wellness plan.
