Why Iron Infusion?
While there are oral iron supplements that allow patients to raise iron intake quickly and efficiently, issues such as diseases that affect iron absorption can make this option an inefficient choice. For these cases, iron infusion might be the most effective way to increase iron levels.
Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency anemia is a common issue that may originate from a lack of iron in your diet, gut problems that prevent iron absorption, and diseases that cause a person to lose iron. For women's health, iron deficiency anemia can even be caused by heavy periods, pregnancy, and other gynecological issues.
People who have iron deficiency are often diagnosed when the symptoms are already quite severe. The most common early signs, such as fatigue and pale skin, can easily be dismissed as typical effects of everyday life. It’s only when the more severe symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain do people consider getting a check-up for anemia.
Effects and Side-Effects of Iron Infusion
Iron infusion may not be the first option as it comes with several side effects that must be considered by your GP. The most common of which are headaches, raised blood pressure, burning sensation in the injection site, and vomiting.
After iron infusion, people suffering from anemia typically feel more energetic. They also report being able to have a more restful sleep, better moods, and enhanced ability to focus on tasks.
Is Iron Infusion right for you?
Generally, iron infusion is not the first course of action for iron deficiency anemia. However, patients who just don’t respond to oral iron supplements, an iron infusion is often the only way to get iron supply back up to normal levels in the bloodstream. For people who suffer from anemia, an infusion may be the only way to get rid of chronic fatigue and other symptoms that may interfere with daily life.
Please note, the information above does not contain all available information and does not take the place of talking to your doctor. If you think you may have an iron deficiency, speak to one of our GPs so they can find the likely cause and address the issue.
