Why iron is important
Iron is an essential mineral your body needs to make red blood cells. Your red blood cells carry oxygen around your body. If you do not have enough iron, you can develop iron deficiency anaemia.
If you are anaemic, you can develop symptoms which may include:
- shortness of breath
- lack of energy
- tiredness
- feeling faint or dizzy
- noticeable heartbeats (heart palpitations)
- low mood
- pale skin
Do I still need to take iron tablets or liquid?
If you are taking either iron tablets or liquid these will need to be stopped before you have your iron infusion. We recommend that these are stopped 48 hours in advance of your infusion.
They are not usually required after your infusion, but you will be advised by the nurse caring for you if you need to restart your iron tablets or liquid again.
When IV therapy is inappropriate
You should not have an intravenous iron infusion if:
- you are known to be sensitive/ allergic to any of the ingredients used for the intravenous iron
- you have any liver disease or abnormal liver function blood tests
- you have any new or ongoing infections
- your anaemia is not because of a shortage of iron
Risks and side effects
Generally intravenous iron is a safe and effective treatment to have. However, there may be some side effects from the treatment you could experience.
It is important to immediately tell the nurse caring for you if:
- you feel unwell before, during or after the treatment
- you experience any discomfort, burning, swelling or redness around the cannula site
Sometimes side effects can occur one to two days after the infusion, these generally settle down without any need for further treatments. However, if you are worried about any side effects, you can talk to your GP, or if you are a patient being cared for by the palliative care team contact the Palliative Care Advice Line on 0330 1588011.
If you have chest pain, difficulty breathing, neck or face swelling call 999 for an ambulance.
What does the infusion involve?
The infusion is given in a medical setting such as an inpatient ward area or an outpatient clinic.
A canula, which is a thin plastic tube, is inserted into a vein on your hand or arm. The infusion is then attached to this and the iron solution is dripped into your body over a short period of time. It can take up to 60 minutes to complete the infusion.
Following the infusion, you will be asked to rest for 30 minutes. If you feel well you will then be able to go home.
Before, during and after the infusion nurses will closely monitor you. They will take your temperature, blood pressure, pulse, oxygen levels and respiration rate to ensure you are not experiencing side effects or reacting to the iron infusion.
How often will I need an iron infusion?
Sometimes you will need two iron infusions, given at least one week apart. This is so that your iron stores in your blood are fully topped up.
The nurses or your GP will continue to monitor your blood results regularly. Should your iron levels become low again, you may need to have further iron infusions.
