Surgery Prep: Iron Infusions
When I started preparing for surgery, it became a priority to address my iron levels. After nearly 2 decades of dealing with anemia, it was important to ensure that my iron was within normal range to decrease the fatigue after surgery. I got a referral to see a hematologist and then orders for iron infusions. I was a little nervous, as things didn’t go well the first time I had an iron infusion nearly a decade earlier. This time wasn’t all flowers and sunshine, but I actually made it through the entire infusion series and saw improvement.
Receiving an iron infusion
Background
In high school, I helped managed regular blood drives and actively donated. Then one day, the pre-donation screening results meant I couldn’t donate, and it was recommended that I see a doctor. At 14, I was told I had iron deficiency anemia and started a journey to increase my iron levels. I’ve taken pills and supplements, added more iron-rich foods, drank teas, and tried properly timing my intake and pairing with Vitamin C. Ultimately, I found the most effective option was taking liquid iron, and it worked well for a while.
While navigating abdominal pain and seeking answers, I was regularly getting lab work done, which showed my iron levels were low … dangerously low at one point. I was referred to a hematologist, and we tried increasing my iron dosage and foods at first. My numbers improved slightly but not enough, so she ordered an iron infusion. I had reservations about it, but my iron levels had to be addressed. I researched infusions and was happy that I was prescribed Injectafer, which only required one session.
We started with the saline solution before the iron infusion via intravenous (IV) therapy in my hand. Within 5 minutes of starting the infusion, my hand was burning and tingling. I notified the team assisting me, and as we continued to monitor my status, the burning sensation traveled up my arm. We stopped the infusion at that point and waited to restart. Once it resumed, the burning almost instantly resumed. We stopped again, and they injected a steroid. After a 30-minute wait, we tried the injection 1 more time … stopped again within 10 minutes. My iron levels increased minimally, but I didn’t want another infusion after that experience.
Iron Infusion w/ IV in hand
The Road to Surgery
After that horrible iron infusion experience years earlier, I was hesitant to go down this path again. I expressed my concerns to the hematologist, and we discussed treatment options and what I needed for surgery recovery. He ordered Venofer this time, which was spread over a series of 5 infusions. Of course, I researched it and tried to prepare for a better experience. I think some preparation helped, but nothing could have prepared me for the deep fatigue I felt after each session.
I wish I could say that each session got better as the series went on, but they varied greatly. Some went well, and then there were terrible side effects that lasted for days after an infusion. I won’t frame this experience with pros and cons, as everyone’s situation calls for what their bodies need. Rather, I’ll highlight the things that helped and how I’d approach heading into a round of infusions.
What Helped ME
Drinking plenty of fluids is already recommended before infusions. As someone who has dealt with needle issues and small veins, being hydrated was key for me. I typically drank plenty of water or coconut water before and on the way to infusion appointments.
Dressing warmly was a must as someone with anemia who easily gets cold. Of course, your arms have to be accessible, but you can drape a sweater or jacket over you. I was fortunate to be at a facility that had warm blankets, and I only had to ask for more when needed. This was especially helpful on days when I had an IV in my hand.
Alleviating anxiety before and during appointments was important to me, especially considering my previous infusion experience. Even a couple sessions this time around made me anxious for the next appointment. So, I created a calming routine the morning of that included prayer, meditation, and affirmations. Check out my favorite affirmations at the end of this post.
Reducing the injection speed was necessary for 3.5 sessions. Similar to the first experience, I had a burning or tingling sensation at multiple appointments. I only had one appointment where I questioned if we actually needed to stop, but slowing the IV push worked well for me. The slower rate reduced pain at the injection site and eased the sensations. This increased the time per session, but it was absolutely worth it to decrease the side effects.
Warm blanket during infusion
Things to consider before infusions
A deep fatigue overtook my body following my appointments and lasted for a day or two. Everyone won’t respond this way, but I was exhausted after sessions and ready for a nap. While not mandatory, it was good to have someone drive me home after appointments. Also, taking time off that afternoon or next day to recover helped.
Whether you’re doing a round of infusions or one-time infusion, bring something to help fill your time. A good book, some downloaded episodes of a show, or a playlist will help the time pass. If you’re doing multiple infusions, you might be there an hour or so for each session. But if you’re doing one big infusion, be prepared for two or more hours.
If you have small veins, speak up. I like to avoid being stuck multiple times, so I always share this at the start of my appointments and offer my hand as an option if there’s trouble finding a good vein in my arm. But more often than not, I’m stuck 2 or 3 times at most appointments, which unfortunately also means it’s more likely I’ll bruise. Using a cold compress after sessions (or lab work) helped me. Also, ask if they have a vein finder to help locate a good spot for the IV if your veins tend to hide or roll. I’m tempted to carry one to all my future appointments.
Bruise after iron infusion
Affirmations
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