Intravenous (IV) therapy is a common procedure used by many medical professionals. During IV therapy, patients receive fluids, blood, or medication straight into their veins. This quick delivery can make treatment much faster and more effective for many people. Here are the top 5 reasons why you may need IV therapy:
1. Dehydration
Dehydration is one of the most common reasons people come in needing IV therapy. Many people think of dehydration as simply the feeling of being thirsty, but dehydration is dangerous and can have serious effects on your overall health. IV therapy may be a superior treatment option for symptoms of dehydration, as it can effectively and rapidly rehydrate the body compared to simply drinking water.
Dehydration occurs when you use or lose more fluid than your body takes in. While anyone can become dehydrated, the condition is particularly dangerous for children and older people. Children are more likely to become dehydrated because of extended periods of vomiting or diarrhea, while older adults may find themselves becoming dehydrated because of the medications they need.
Symptoms of dehydration include:
- extreme thirst
- headache
- dry mouth and tongue
- fatigue
- dark colored urine
- dizziness
While you may be able to replace fluids on your own by simply drinking water, it is important to take dehydration seriously. If your symptoms are severe, you should seek medical help. IV therapy is one way to replace your fluids quickly so that your body can recover more quickly.
2. Surgery and Other Procedures
Many people need to use an IV when they have surgery. Both inpatient and outpatient procedures may need anesthesia, pain medications, antibiotics, and other fluids that can be administered through an IV.
When used as part of surgery, an IV will help the doctor and medical assistants provide needed fluids and medications immediately as needed. That way, the patient can stay comfortable and hydrated throughout the procedure. Electrolytes and blood sugar levels can be maintained at a healthy level, and patients may even receive warmed fluids to raise their temperatures.
3. Nutrition Deficiencies
IV therapy may be the best way to administer needed nutrients when a patient is suffering from malnutrition. Some patients are simply unable to maintain a healthy level of nutrients on their own, while others may need help because of a temporary condition. There are some medical conditions and eating disorders that may make it necessary to use an IV to provide nutrition to a patient.
4. Specific Types of Medication
Most medicines can be taken orally or with a simple injection. Other medications may need to be administered by IV. Some examples of medications that are administered through an IV include chemotherapy, blood products and transfusions, and some antibiotics and antifungals.
5. Emergency Situations
Some emergency medications may need to be administered by IV, even if those medications are normally taken more traditionally. For example, when a patient has a heart attack or stroke, medications are administered more quickly in order to lessen the effects of the emergency. Other times when a patient may need an emergency IV include:
- when there is excessive bleeding;
- if the patient is experiencing anaphylaxis or a severe allergic reaction;
- after an overdose;
- after a poisoning;
- or to receive sedation after a traumatic injury or event in order to receive care quickly.
Is IV Therapy for You?
IV therapy is a safe way to get the fluids and nutrition your body lacks for whatever reason. Medical IVs are used every day for many reasons because they can be the safest, fastest, and most efficient way to provide care for patients. If you are considering IV therapy for yourself, you can rest assured that IV treatment is a normal part of modern medical care.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of dehydration or malnutrition, you can use IV therapy to restore your health and bring back your energy levels.
For example, you can receive B vitamins to improve your energy level, D vitamins to help your immune system, and other fluids and products to assist with burning fat and raising your metabolism. Your health is in your hands, and you can use IV therapy so you feel better and improve your overall health.
Explore Wellness Through IV Therapy in Denver, CO
At Awaken IV, our goal is to empower each patient by providing reliable IV therapy services. We care about our patients and believe in developing personal relationships so that we can work together with the same goals for your health. If you would like to speak with us about our services, you can contact us by calling 303-409-3690. Start your journey today.