What is Iron?
Iron is a mineral that is an essential element in your body. It plays an important role in many vital biological processes. Most importantly, iron aids in the formation of hemoglobin, a component of blood that is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body, and myoglobin, a protein that provides oxygen to the muscles. A lack of iron, or iron-deficiency, may lead to symptoms such as extreme fatigue, weakness, headache, light-headedness, shortness of breath, pale skin, hair loss, brittle nails and strange cravings for non-nutritive substances such as ice, starch, chalk, or even dirt. It is not surprising that iron-deficiency has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality in the general population worldwide.
Iron Replacement Therapy
Oral iron supplementation is usually the first choice for the treatment of iron-deficiency because of its low cost and ease of administration. Unfortunately, in many conditions caused by low iron, oral iron is less than ideal. Absorption problems within the stomach and intestines, other medical conditions, medications, and foods eaten at the same time that oral iron is consumed can limit the body’s ability to absorb these preparations. Unpleasant side effects like metallic taste, upset stomach, or constipation can also limit the desire to take oral iron routinely. The prescribed course of treatment required to replenish the body’s iron stores and the treatment of iron-deficiency with these oral supplements can also be lengthy.
Intravenous Iron Administration
Treatment with intravenous iron is superior to oral iron therapy and does have its advantages as an alternative option. Absorption of iron directly from the blood stream, unaffected by other foods and medications leads to a faster increase in hemoglobin and myoglobin levels, and replenishment of other iron stores within the body. By restoring these iron levels quickly, individuals can improve their symptoms and prevent further complications from their deficiency.
If you suspect that you may be deficient in iron or are in preparation for a surgery, intravenous iron supplementation many be an effective strategy for you. An evaluation will need to be preformed to see if you are a candidate. Current lab work and/or a healthcare provider’s order will be necessary to complete this evaluation. Please call the Restoration Infusions Team today for a consultation.
