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Iron Deficiency & Blood Loss

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Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) and Blood Loss

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common type of anemia characterized by a deficiency of iron in the body. Iron is an essential component for the production of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. When the body lacks sufficient iron, it can’t produce an adequate amount of healthy red blood cells, leading to a reduction in oxygen-carrying capacity and causing anemia.

Blood loss is one of the primary causes of iron deficiency anemia. This can occur through various means, including:

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract due to conditions like ulcers, gastritis, or colorectal cancer can lead to chronic blood loss over time.

Menstrual Blood Loss

In menstruating women, heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding can result in a gradual loss of iron, leading to anemia.

Trauma or Surgery

Significant blood loss due to injury or surgical procedures can deplete iron stores.

Inadequate Dietary Intake

A diet low in iron-rich foods can lead to insufficient iron intake.

Malabsorption

Certain gastrointestinal disorders, such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, can hinder the absorption of dietary iron.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia

The symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can vary in severity but often include:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Pale skin
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Brittle nails
  • Headaches
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances (pica)

Iron Infusions (INFeD and Venofer)

Iron infusions are a treatment option for individuals with iron deficiency anemia who cannot tolerate or do not respond to oral iron supplements. Two common iron infusion products are INFeD (iron dextran complex) and Venofer (iron sucrose).

INFeD (Iron Dextran Complex)

INFeD is an intravenous iron preparation that is administered directly into the bloodstream. It’s used when oral iron supplementation is ineffective or not well-tolerated. INFeD contains iron dextran, which is a complex of iron and a carbohydrate. It’s administered under medical supervision.

Venofer (Iron Sucrose)

Venofer is another intravenous iron product used to treat iron deficiency anemia. It contains iron sucrose, which is also administered intravenously. Venofer is generally preferred for its lower risk of allergic reactions compared to INFeD.

Contraindications and Side Effects

While iron infusions can be highly effective, they are not suitable for everyone, and there are potential contraindications and side effects to consider

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity

Individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the components of INFeD or Venofer should not receive these iron infusions.

Anaphylaxis History

Patients with a history of severe anaphylactic reactions to parenteral iron products should avoid these treatments.

Common Side Effects

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, can occur, although they are more common with INFeD than Venofer.

Hypotension

Low blood pressure can occur during or after iron infusions.

Gastrointestinal Disturbances

Some individuals may experience nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

Headache

Headaches are a possible side effect.

Pain at the Injection Site

Discomfort or pain at the infusion site can occur.

Fever

Fever may develop in some cases.

It’s essential for healthcare providers to carefully assess each patient’s medical history and overall health to determine the most appropriate treatment for iron deficiency anemia and to monitor patients during and after iron infusions to manage any potential side effects or adverse reactions. Iron infusions should only be administered under medical supervision.

Recommended IV Therapies

Recommended For Dehydrated Patients
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inFED

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  • Dehydration

The inFED IM targets symptoms of iron deficiency anemia with a sufficient supply of iron dextran up to 2 mL. This therapy can last up to 45 minutes.

inFED

Venofer

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  • Dehydration
  • Restlessness

The Venofer IV targets symptoms of iron deficiency anemia and blood loss with a sufficient supply of iron sucrose in the amount of 1L of saline and can be combined with vitamin D3 IM. This therapy can last up to 1 hour.

Saline / 1L
B complex
Vitamin C
Magnesium
B12

Symptoms of Dehydration

  • Dry or sticky mouth
  • Not peeing very much
  • Dark yellow pee
  • Dry cool skin
  • Headache
  • Muscle cramps

Signs of Severe Dehydration

  • Not peeing or having very dark yellow pee
  • Very dry skin
  • Feeling dizzy
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Rapid breathing
  • Sunken eyes
  • Sleepiness
  • lack of energy
  • confusion or irritability
  • Fainting

Who Is At Risk?

Iron deficiency anemia and blood loss can affect a wide range of individuals, but some groups are more susceptible than others. Here are some key points about who is affected:

Women of Childbearing Age: Women are more prone to iron deficiency anemia due to menstruation, especially if their periods are heavy. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can also deplete iron stores.

Children and Adolescents: Growth spurts during childhood and adolescence can increase iron requirements, and poor dietary habits can lead to iron deficiency anemia in this age group.

Vegetarians and Vegans: People who follow strict vegetarian or vegan diets may have a higher risk of iron deficiency anemia because they don’t consume heme iron found in animal products, which is more readily absorbed by the body. Non-heme iron from plant sources is less efficiently absorbed.

Elderly Individuals: Older adults may be at risk due to reduced absorption of iron from the diet and other health conditions that can lead to blood loss, such as gastrointestinal bleeding.

Individuals with Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions like peptic ulcers, gastritis, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, leading to iron deficiency anemia.

Frequent Blood Donors: Regular blood donation can deplete iron stores, making frequent donors susceptible to iron deficiency anemia if they don’t adequately replenish their iron levels through diet or supplementation.

Athletes: Intense physical activity can increase iron requirements, and athletes may lose iron through sweat and gastrointestinal bleeding, putting them at risk for anemia if they don’t meet their increased iron needs.

Chronic Illness: Some chronic medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease or cancer, can lead to anemia due to various factors, including reduced production of red blood cells and increased blood loss.

People with Menstrual Disorders: Conditions like menorrhagia (excessive menstrual bleeding) can result in significant blood loss, increasing the risk of iron deficiency anemia.

Individuals with Poor Dietary Habits: People who have diets low in iron-rich foods or who consume foods that inhibit iron absorption (e.g., excessive tea or coffee) are at risk of developing iron deficiency anemia.

Surgical Patients: Surgical procedures can lead to blood loss, and patients undergoing major surgeries may require iron supplementation to prevent or treat anemia.

It’s important to note that iron deficiency anemia and blood loss can affect anyone, and individual risk factors can vary. If you suspect you have iron deficiency anemia or are at risk, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment. Treatment may involve dietary changes, iron supplements, or addressing the underlying cause of blood loss, depending on the individual’s circumstances.

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How To Book On Calendar

Book your request two ways

You can book your appointment directly on calendar (option 1) or submit a request form (option 2). You can use both options but only one is sufficient.

Select a service

Select a nurse in your area

Fill out the form with your contact information and address

We confirm your appointment via Square based on your schedule and the nurses availability

Patient(s) gives consent to the nurse to perform the IV therapy via JotForm

Relieve your symptoms and target your treatment objectives

Option 1: Book Directly On Calendar

Select any service if unsure. We automatically confirm your request. We will pair you with a nurse that’s available in your area. Your nurse will reach out for introduction and consultation. Reserve all medical questions for your nurse when paired. Please include any important medical history in notes section. Please be prepared to sign consent for IV therapy. If you apply on calendar you do not have to submit a request form. We will not charge your billing method until completion of therapy. A $35 IV service fee is applied with every IV & IM therapy.

Option 2: Submit A Form Request

After submission we will pair you with a nurse that’s available in your area. Your nurse will reach out for introduction and consultation. Reserve all medical questions for your nurse when paired. Please include any important medical history in notes section. Please be prepared to sign consent for IV therapy. If you apply on calendar you do not have to submit a request form. We will not charge your billing method until completion of therapy. A $35 IV service fee is applied with every IV & IM therapy.

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