Iron Infusion in Point Cook
An iron infusion delivers iron directly into a vein to top up low iron stores faster than tablets can. Iron infusions are given at the clinic once a deficiency has been confirmed.
About iron deficiency
Iron is needed to make healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body. Low stores can leave you tired, short of breath, dizzy or foggy. Some people notice pale skin, headaches, brittle nails or restless legs, while others have no symptoms and find out from a blood test.
Heavy periods, pregnancy, a diet low in iron and conditions that affect absorption, such as coeliac disease, are common causes. Bleeding from the stomach or bowel can also lower iron, which is why finding the reason matters as much as replacing it.
Who may be offered one
- Anyone who cannot tolerate iron tablets
- Those whose levels have not improved despite taking tablets
- Patients who need stores replaced more quickly, for example later in pregnancy or before surgery
Tablets or an infusion?
For many people, tablets and more iron-rich food come first. Tablets can take a few months to rebuild stores and can cause constipation or an upset stomach. An infusion is an option when tablets have not worked, are not tolerated, or time is short. The benefits and risks should be talked through with a doctor before deciding.
Getting ready
A blood test confirming iron deficiency comes first. Dorevitch Pathology has a collection service at the clinic, so the sample can be taken without going elsewhere. Ferritin shows how much iron is stored, while haemoglobin shows whether anaemia has developed.
- Mention any allergies or earlier reactions to iron
- Bring a list of the medicines you take
- Raise pregnancy or breastfeeding, as intravenous iron is generally avoided in the first trimester
- Wear a top with sleeves that roll up easily
- Pack something to read, as you will be seated for a while
How an iron infusion works
A thin plastic tube, called a cannula, is placed in a vein in the arm and the iron runs in over a set time. You stay under observation for a period afterwards. Headache, nausea or muscle aches for a day or two are common.
Rarely, iron leaks into the surrounding skin and leaves a brown stain that can be permanent. Speak up straight away if the drip site stings, burns or swells.
Reactions to watch for
Serious allergic reactions are uncommon but possible. Itching, flushing, feeling faint or breathlessness during or soon after the infusion need to be reported immediately. After leaving, call 000 for trouble breathing, a swollen face, lips or tongue, or feeling very unwell. A fever, or pain and redness at the drip site that gets worse, should be checked by a doctor.
If you feel unwell or feverish on the day of your booking, call reception before coming in.
Keeping levels up afterwards
Iron levels are commonly rechecked with a blood test some weeks after an infusion. Red meat, chicken, fish, eggs, legumes, tofu and leafy greens all provide iron, and eating vitamin C rich foods at the same meal helps the body absorb iron from plant sources. Tea, coffee and calcium supplements taken with meals can reduce absorption, so spacing them apart helps. Treating an underlying cause, such as heavy periods, lowers the chance of the deficiency returning. Some iron preparations can also lower blood phosphate, particularly with repeat infusions, so tell your doctor about new muscle weakness or bone pain.
Fees and bulk billing
This procedure is listed on our fees page, with the Medicare rebate and out-of-pocket fee. Fees can vary with the doctor and the complexity of the procedure, so please confirm when you book.