The experienced team at Eastlink Family Medical are now offering iron infusions for our patients. To determine if you require an iron infusion, please book an appointment to see your doctor.
Iron infusions are used to treat low iron levels in the body. When your body does not have enough iron in the body, you will not have healthy red blood cells and your blood will carry less oxygen. This condition is known as anaemia. An iron infusion involves delivering iron directly into the blood stream through an intravenous (IV) drip.
An iron infusion may be required for patients who:
Are not able to take iron orally (tablets or liquid)
Are not responding to iron tablets/liquid
Have chronic kidney or heart disease
FAQ'S
I have been referred to Eastlink Family Medical by my regular GP, what should I do now?
Please call us on 9088 8822 to arrange an appointment. Our friendly reception staff will organise an initial consultation to discuss the procedure and explain what it involves. During this appointment, the doctor will also give you a prescription for the iron vial which you can get from the chemist. You will need to bring the iron with you on the day of your procedure. Following the assessment of appropriateness of the iron infusion, we will organise a time for the procedure to occur.
What should I do before the procedure?
Continue with normal intake of food and fluids (there is no need to fast), continue with regular prescribed medications and be prepared to have a small IV drip put into your arm. You can ask any questions you may have during the initial consultation with the doctor.
What happens after the procedure?
After the procedure, the doctor will follow up with another blood test to assess the changes in your iron levels.
What are the benefits?
An iron infusion is a rapid way of delivering iron to the body. The physical benefits of an iron infusion include increased energy and easier breathing. You should start to feel these benefits within a few weeks of your final infusion treatment, and they may last anywhere from several months to a few years.
Is it painful?
You will be required to have a small needle inserted into either your arm or hand, however the actual iron infusion itself does not hurt.
How do I know if I am low in Iron?
The only definitive way to know if your body is low in iron is through a blood test. Symptoms of low iron however may include tiredness, dizziness, difficulty thinking, breathlessness and appearing pale. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with your doctor.