What to Expect: Iron Infusions

By thedancingcrohnie

2 min read

Iron deficiency anemia is a symptom I've experienced with Crohn’s disease. Lack of iron is actually quite common in healthy people, so when you add a Crohn’s diagnosis it isn’t surprising that iron deficiency is more so amplified.¹

Symptoms of anemia include: being short of breath, dealing with intense fatigue, loss of hair, dizziness, lightheadedness, fast heart rate, brittle nails, pale skin, overall feeling of weakness and that’s just to name a few.¹

This or That

Have you ever had an iron infusion?

Anemia struggles

Since being diagnosed back in 2011, I have struggled greatly with anemia. I have had many blood transfusions and iron transfusions to help get my levels normalized—although even with these therapies I have never had normal levels but that is another story. Though normalcy hasn’t been reached, these therapies help improve my case greatly and I am thankful for having the opportunity to get them.

This past week was my last iron infusion and I thought it would be fitting to write about my experience, in case anyone was due to have them.

Iron infusions with IBD

Typically you go in for multiple infusions, usually five, within a week or so of each dose. I have had what is called an Iron Push before, which is a one-time deal and it is administered via IV. I had this done when I was in the hospital and I believe that is only done in certain cases and must be hospitalized for it but don’t quote me on that.

In this most recent case, I was given five infusions once a week. 200mg of iron each week so a total of 1000mg of iron for the entire process.

Things to consider

Dilution

If you have sensitive veins there are some things to consider. Iron is abrasive and it can cause discomfort during the infusion. My nurse was kind enough to dilute the iron with another saline bag and use a “y” connection to then do the infusion. You can easily ask for this and it is very easy to do. Instead of the infusion taking about 20-30 minutes, it does take about an hour but to me it is worth not having to deal with discomfort.

A quick note about this method: when the iron comes in its own bag it is already diluted in a solution for the infusion. What I ask for is an extra step to the dilution process because I have had many instances where the dilution from the pharmacy is not enough for me and it causes discomfort at the vein site.

Hydration and comfort

Also, make sure you are hydrated and have eaten something before your infusion session. It helps for the nurse to find a good vein and it also helps your body process the iron better. You will be sitting for some time so also dress comfortably and warm because we all know infusion centers tend to be wicked cold. And lastly, bring some entertainment.

Worth it?

Overall, if you qualify for an iron infusion, it was worth it for me. If you have sensitive veins, ask your nurse to further dilute the infusion with an extra saline bag. Make sure to dress comfortably and bring entertainment.

Have you had an iron infusion before? Do you have any tips you’d like to share? Share below, we love to hear from you.

Treatment results and side effects can vary from person to person. This treatment information is not meant to replace professional medical advice. Talk to your doctor about what to expect before starting and while taking any treatment.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The InflammatoryBowelDisease.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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gypsycowgirl71 Member
<inline-mention username="thedancingcrohnie" user-id="2240052"/> Thank you for sharing your experience! I received regular iron infusions. Diluted and the nurse gave me Benadryl. I too am rather sensitive to meds. Due to the frequency of the infusions I had a port, super helpful. I was also on prescription liquid iron. (All before my final colostomy surgery.) Luckily the infusion center had heated chairs and blankets. Now I'm still monitored by a hematologist. Maybe once or twice a year I need an infusion. I feel it's important for us to know our body's and recognize symptoms of low iron (or other vitamins). Be well. I wish you strength, laughter, and support. 
1. gypsycowgirl71 Member
 <inline-mention username="christine.laaksonen" user-id="8454775"/> Thank you, Christine for the response. Symptoms for me: if I'm getting low on iron I feel extremely exhausted, muscle weakness, darker than normal under eye bags Low potassium: Muscle spasms, Lightheadedness Low B12: shortness of breath, dizziness, decreased appetite Some symptoms are so similar. Thankfully my primary care doctor or hematologist just runs a panel. 
2. christine.laaksonen Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="gypsycowgirl71" user-id="2268163"/> thanks so much for sharing! It sounds like you know your body (and the symptoms) really well. But yes, with some things being so similar it's great that you have a good primary care doctor and hematologist to be able to run a panel. Having a good team can make such a difference in care! Wishing you a gentle day. -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member)
CommunityMember704203 Member
Since 2020 I have received many iron infusions. I tolerate them fine and I do not have a port. My doctor doesn't want to risk infection. My veins are not great and they have always added a bag of saline alongside. I get either the 5 dose or the 2 dose of iron. A funny thing that happens afterward is that when I get home and do the first pee after an iron infusion, my pee is pretty dark like mild, watered down iced tea. That is a side effect mentioned in the papers they give me. 
1. Richard Faust Community Admin
 Hi <inline-mention username="CommunityMember704203" user-id="8800076"/>. It is probably a good sign that you are seeing the darker urine. The kidneys can process out up to 5% of the iron infusion (hence the urine change) which probably indicates your body is getting the iron it needs and processing it properly. Thanks for sharing your experience. Best, Richard (Team Member)