Iron Infusions

Iron Deficiency is an Epidemic: Unlocking the Key to Vitality

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Iron deficiency is a common condition that affects a significant portion of the population. It is estimated that nearly 1 in 4 women worldwide are affected by iron deficiency, making it one of the most prevalent nutritional deficiencies. Men can also become iron deficient, though it is less common.  Iron deficiency occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce an adequate amount of hemoglobin—a protein responsible for carrying oxygen to the body’s tissues. As a result, iron deficiency can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, and decreased immune function.

Some people become iron deficient because they lack sufficient quantities of iron in their diet – vegetarians and vegans are particularly susceptible to this.  And yet, even if dietary iron is adequate, iron is easily blocked by other minerals and requires a precise internal environment to be absorbed. Many patients struggle to normalize their ferritin and hemoglobin values, despite oral supplementation, especially those who experience significant blood loss with their menstrual cycles. 

Common signs and symptoms of iron deficiency.

  1. Persistent fatigue 
  2. Hair loss 
  3. Fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum related symptoms
  4. Difficult concentration
  5. Cold intolerance
  6. Heavy menstrual cycles
  7. Poor thyroid function
  8. Shortness of breath
  9. Poor immune system
  10. Dizziness or lightheadedness
  11. Restless legs syndrome

Understanding the Benefits of Iron Infusions

Iron infusions are a superior alternative to oral supplementation for iron deficiency. By delivering iron directly into the bloodstream, infusions bypass the digestive system, enabling faster and more efficient absorption. Here’s why you might prefer iron infusions:

1. Enhanced Absorption:  Iron infusions offer a direct and concentrated supply of iron, bypassing digestive limitations that hinder oral absorption.

2. Immediate Impact: Iron infusions rapidly improve iron levels, providing swift relief from iron deficiency symptoms compared to oral supplementation.

3. Higher Dosage: Iron infusions offer a higher dose option for severe iron deficiency or conditions hindering oral absorption, promoting efficient iron replenishment and optimal health.

Optimizing Iron Levels for Preconception, Pregnancy, and Postpartum

Preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum are crucial periods where maintaining optimal iron levels is paramount. Iron plays a vital role in supporting a healthy pregnancy and ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby.

Preconception

When planning to conceive, it’s essential to ensure that your body has adequate iron stores. Optimizing iron levels before conception can help prevent iron deficiency during pregnancy, as well as support overall reproductive health and fertility.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the demand for iron significantly increases to support the growing fetus and the expansion of maternal blood volume. Insufficient iron levels during pregnancy can lead to maternal anemia, preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues for the baby. By optimizing iron levels through infusions, you can provide your body with the necessary resources for a healthy pregnancy.

Postpartum

The postpartum period is physically demanding, often starting with blood loss during delivery. Restoring iron levels after childbirth is essential to replenish the body’s stores and promote healing. Adequate iron levels in the postpartum period can help prevent or alleviate postpartum fatigue, support breastfeeding, and ensure a smooth recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iron Infusions at Acubalance

Anyone who struggles to normalize their hemoglobin or ferritin status can be a candidate for iron infusions at Acubalance. To determine your eligibility, we require you to bring your most recent blood work, including a ferritin test conducted within the preceding 3 months. Typically, if your ferritin level is below 50, you are likely a candidate for at least one iron infusion. To assess if iron infusions at Acubalance are suitable for you, consult your healthcare provider or ask to speak with one of our naturopathic physicians.

Patients interested in receiving iron infusions at Acubalance must first book a 15-minute iron candidacy appointment with one of our naturopathic physicians. During this appointment, you will need to bring your most recent blood work, including a ferritin result no older than 3 months. The screening visit cost is $50, plus the cost of blood work if it hasn’t been done (approximately $100 out of pocket). During this appointment, your naturopathic physician will determine your eligibility for iron infusions, discuss risks and benefits, and create a personalized plan for the number of infusions you should receive. Typically, patients undergo between 3 to 5 weekly iron infusions before retesting their ferritin 4 to 6 weeks after the final infusion.  Our naturopathic physicians administer and monitor all iron infusions at Acubalance.

The duration of an iron infusion can vary, with the first infusion generally taking the longest. We start slowly to ensure you tolerate the infusion well. For the first infusion, expect to spend 45 to 60 minutes at the clinic, and for subsequent infusions, typically 30 to 45 minutes. Before every iron infusion, it is important to eat something and drink plenty of water within the 3 hours prior to the appointment to ensure proper hydration for the IV. After the infusion, be sure to consume a meal containing fat, protein, and fiber within 2 to 4 hours. Most patients tolerate iron infusions very well, and we thoroughly review all potential risks and side effects during your 15-minute iron infusion consultation and at each infusion session when necessary.

If you have naturopathic coverage, the cost of iron infusions may be fully or partially covered by your extended benefits. You will submit your Acubalance receipt to your benefits program in order to be reimbursed for the service.

Clinical improvement is typically seen after the second treatment in a series of iron infusions, but the response rate can vary greatly between patients. Speak to your Acubalance ND about the benefits of iron infusions for you, during your 15-minute candidacy appointment

This varies from patient to patient. If the initial cause is addressed, most patients do not require further infusions after iron levels return to normal.

You do not need to continue taking oral iron supplements unless specifically instructed to by your doctor.

The majority of patients do not experience any side effects. Some patients may get a mild rash or flushing during their infusion. This is usually resolved by slowing the infusion rate. 1 in 10 patients can experience flu-like symptoms, including muscle/joint aches up to several days post-infusion. These are benign and will resolve on their own but the symptoms can improve significantly with over-the-counter medications. Another small portion of patients may notice their urine will briefly be a darker colour. This is benign and will go away without the need for intervention. Should there be any other specific concerns the Acubalance ND’s are available to consult over the phone.

The Acubalance Naturopathic Doctors screen for, administer, monitor, and manage all iron infusions at Acubalance. Our NDs have prescriptive and intravenous infusion authorities and have received extra training in iron infusion therapy.

IV Iron is a safe and effective way to replace iron stores and treat anemia in pregnancy and the post-partum period. Speak with you prenatal care provider to see if IV iron may be a good option for you when oral supplements are ineffective or not tolerated because of side effects.

Our Approach

At Acubalance, we address the underlying causes of disease using a patient-centered approach addressing the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms.

  • Schedule a discovery call or consultation.
  • Receive a thorough evaluation with one of our practitioners and allow them to get to know you and your symptoms.
  • Through careful testing and analysis, get a multi-disciplinary treatment plan made up of various treatments and therapies to holistically heal your disease and eliminate all symptoms.
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