Iron infusion is when iron is delivered via an intravenous line into a person's body.

Increasing the amount of iron a person has in their blood treats anemia.

This is effective in treating Iron deficiency anaemia in patients who:

- Do not absorb iron well in the gastroentestinal tract.

- Patients with severe iron deficiency.

- Patients with chronic blood loss.

- Patients who cannot tolerate oral iron.

Are there any side effects from the iron infusion?

Side-effects and severe reactions are very rare, some may include:

- Headache

- Dizziness

- Flushing

- Feeling sick (nausea)

- Reactions where the needle is inserted for the infusion.

- Allergic / anaphylactic reaction to the iron infusion - please let your doctor know, if you have had and allergic reaction to iron infusion in the past.

There is always a nurse in the room with you throughout the procedure, monitoring you. She will stop the infusion if there are any concerns that you may be having a reaction to the infusion.

What do I need to do on the day of the procedure?

There is no particular preparation needed for an Iron Infusion, except to drink plenty of water for hydration.

Is there anything I need to do after the Iron Infusion?

It is always important to monitor your own health after an iron infusion. If you experience any significant symptoms (like chest pain, difficulty breathing) contack your doctor as soon as possible or go to the Emergency Department.

You will need to have blood tests 2-4 weeks after the infusion to make sure it has worked.