Know complete information related to the side effects of an iron infusion in very easy and simple language through this post of ours.
Intravenous (IV) iron infusion
Iron is one of the minerals in the human body. If you don’t have enough iron, your body cannot make haemoglobin, and you may have anaemia. One way to treat anaemia is with intravenous iron.
Iron infusion is a process in which iron is delivered through the veins in your body, which means in the vein through the needle. This method of medicine or supplementation is also known as intravenous (IV) infusion.
Why is iron important?
Our body needs iron. Iron is used to make haemoglobin – Our red blood cells are part of the part that transports oxygen to our body. It is also important for muscle strength, energy, and good mental function. If your iron levels are low this may make you feel tired and And maybe you can not be able to.do ordinary everyday activities. As the amount of iron in the body decreases further, the haemoglobin level falls below normal. This is called iron deficiency i.e. anaemia.
Why might I need IV iron?
The most common way to treat iron deficiency is to take iron by mouth in pill or liquid form. It works well for most people and is usually the first to use. Some people may need to be given iron directly into the body through a vein. This is called an intravenous (IV) iron infusion. Iron is given by needle and is dripped (‘infused’) into your vein. Sometimes 2 iron infusions are used to fill the iron reserves completely. Infusions (given at 1-week intervals) are needed. The infusion is made from iron, not blood.
IV iron may be needed in a situation if you:
> Not able to consume iron tablets/liquids (syrup)
> Iron pills/liquids are not affecting you or you are not able to take them
> It is important for you to have your iron levels raised as soon as possible (eg, before major surgery, in the late stages of pregnancy, or to avoid blood transfusions)
> Suffers from chronic kidney disease or chronic heart failure
> Your doctor should explain why you need IV iron and other options.
Are there any side effects of (IV) iron infusion?
In general, if side effects do occur, they are mild and go away on their own. The most common side effects are temporary and include:
> Headache, feeling sick or vomiting, muscle or joint pain
> change in taste (eg metallic)
> Changes in blood pressure (BP) or pulse
> Discolouration of the skin (brown spots) – This may be due to iron leaking into the muscle fibres around the injection site (drip). This is not common, but the rash can be long-lasting or permanent. If there is any pain, burning, redness or swelling at the injection site (drip), see a doctor immediately.
> Although it is very uncommon, some people can have a serious allergic reaction. In rare cases, it can be fatal. You will be closely monitored while the IV iron is given and for 30 minutes thereafter.
> Sometimes side effects (eg headache, musculoskeletal pain) may begin after 1 or 2 days. Mostly it will go away on its own in the next few days. If you are concerned about this or if it interferes with your daily activities, contact your doctor or infusion centre for advice.
> If you have chest pain, you are having difficulty breathing, you feel dizzy or you have swelling in your neck/mouth, please seek medical advice/call an ambulance immediately.
What to tell your doctor?
You should report the following conditions to your doctor and centre doing your iron infusion:
- If you are pregnant/ trying to become pregnant. IV iron should be avoided in the first trimester of pregnancy.
- If you have asthma, eczema (itching) or other types of allergies.
- If you have had a reaction to any type of iron injection or infusion in the past.
- If your iron levels are high and you have hemochromatosis and you are more prone to liver problems.
- If you are taking any medicines (herbal and over-the-counter medicines).
- If you have (or may have had) an infection at this time.
What to ask your doctor?
You may want to talk to your doctor about the following:
- Why do I need an IV Iron?
- What are the other options?
- How long will the iron infusion take?
- How many iron infusions do I need to take to get enough iron?
- (If you are currently taking any iron pills), when do I stop taking iron pills and will I need to use them again?
- How long will it take for the iron to take effect?
- Any questions about side effects that you are concerned about
What happens on that day?
There is nothing special you need to do to prepare for iron infusion day (for example, you don’t have to fast). As long as you don’t have any unexpected reactions, you can drive home and go about your normal activities.
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FAQs
how long do iron infusion side effects last?
A person may experience some mild side effects for 1-2 days after iron infusion. Side effects can include headaches, metal taste in the mouth or joint pain.
how long does an iron infusion take?
An iron infusion can take up to 3 or 4 hours. You should expect to sit at this time. In some cases, the infusion may take a little longer, depending on the level of treatment required by your doctor. Slow infusion rate helps prevent complications.
what is an iron infusion?
Iron infusion is a process in which iron is delivered through the veins in your body, which means in the vein through the needle. This method of medicine or supplementation is also known as intravenous (IV) infusion.
how long after iron infusion will I feel better?
Your iron level will be restored immediately after the infusion, however, it may take up to two weeks before you start noticing a difference and feel better.
How long do you feel bad after iron infusion?
Sometimes side effects can start 1 to 2 days after the infusion and include headaches, mild fever, joint and muscle pain. They usually settle down on their own in the next few days.
What is the difference between a transfusion and an infusion?
Infusion essentially refers to when an external substance is administered directly into the blood flow, while transfusion refers to when the same substance is administered only from the external source, in the same way.
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