Iron is a fundamental component of hemoglobin, a protein present in red blood cells and responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Iron is essential for sustaining various bodily functions, and iron deficiency must be addressed immediately to avoid major complications.
Intravenous iron infusion is a popular treatment for patients suffering from iron deficiency or anemia caused by iron deficiency. A combination of iron and a saline solution is directly injected into the patient's bloodstream to restore the iron content in the body. Read out the blog to learn what to expect from an iron infusion appointment if you are preparing for an iron infusion.
Iron infusion has several benefits, including:
Your doctor will provide instructions on the exact steps you need to take before our session. Common instructions include:
If you have any anxieties or concerns about the infusion, please speak with your doctor and nursing staff.
The iron infusion therapy is performed in hemodialysis centers or medical facilities. A registered medical professional inserts a small IV tube into the vein during the therapy, which is attached to an IV bag containing iron and saline solution. The solution is either pumped into the bloodstream or enters in drips into the veins.
You can feel slight pressure or a pinch where the IV tube is inserted. Usually, the professional performing the therapy will use a test dose before the actual procedure to observe whether the patient has any adverse reaction to the iron infusion.
The therapy can take between 3-4 hours. The entire treatment is carried out in sessions, and the course is usually completed in one or a few weeks. However, it can take longer for patients with anemia.
Unlike iron injections, iron infusion involves restoring iron levels using an IV drip and is expected to take more time than injections. Iron injections are applied directly into the muscle, while the iron infusion is sent into the patient's bloodstream. Iron injections can be quite painful, causing intramuscular bleeding and orange discoloration. Iron infusions are comparatively less painful, without any such side effects.
Contact us at Chesapeake Oncology Hematology Associates to learn more about iron infusion. Schedule an appointment with us today if you need to undergo an iron infusion.
