IV Therapy
What is IV Therapy?
IV vitamin therapy is a treatment where vitamins and nutrients are delivered straight into your bloodstream through a drip. This method ensures that your body absorbs these essential nutrients more quickly and effectively than if you were taking them by mouth. People use IV vitamin therapy to boost energy, improve overall health, and help recover from illness or stress. Each session is tailored to meet your specific health needs, using a mix of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients.
Who can benefit from IV Therapy?
IV therapy can be beneficial for a variety of individuals. Those with nutrient deficiencies can quickly restore their balance through this treatment. People experiencing chronic fatigue or low energy may find a boost in their vitality. Athletes and active individuals often use IV therapy to support recovery, enhance performance, and replenish electrolytes lost during intense exercise. It’s also helpful for those recovering from illness or surgery, as it speeds up recovery an improves hydration and nutrient levels. Additionally, individuals dealing with high stress or busy lifestyles can benefit from the overall wellness support that IV therapy provides. It’s an effective way to maintain optimal health and prevent potential deficiencies.
What are the risks of IV Therapy?
While IV therapy is generally safe, it's good to be aware of a few potential risks. Occasionally, there might be a minor infection at the injection site, or you could have a mild allergic reaction to the nutrients used. Some people might experience slight discomfort or swelling in the vein where the IV is placed. In rare cases, getting too much fluid too quickly can cause temporary swelling, or there might be a small chance of feeling dizzy if the electrolyte balance is off. There’s also a chance of some temporary redness or tenderness around the vein. Overall, these risks are quite uncommon and can be managed effectively. Your healthcare provider will help ensure that IV therapy is a safe and beneficial option for you.
Who should not get IV Therapy?
IV therapy may not be suitable for everyone. It’s typically not recommended for those with severe kidney or heart conditions, specific metabolic disorders, or known allergies to the nutrients used. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider to ensure safety. People with active infections, certain medications, or blood clotting disorders should also check with their provider. Your healthcare professional will help determine if IV therapy is right for you based on your health needs.
Requirements before IV Therapy
Before starting IV therapy, our Naturopathic Doctor may recommend a few tests to ensure it’s safe for you. Blood tests are commonly done to check for nutrient deficiencies, electrolyte imbalances, and to assess kidney and liver function. Allergy testing may be necessary if you have known allergies to ensure you’re not sensitive to any of the IV components. Additionally, heart and kidney function tests help determine how well these organs are working, as they are crucial in handling the fluid and nutrients from the therapy. A metabolic panel might be performed to evaluate your overall metabolic health. A urine test could also be conducted to further assess kidney function and overall health. Our Naturopathic Doctor will guide you on which specific tests are needed based on your individual health needs.
How to Prepare for an IV Therapy Session
To ensure a comfortable IV therapy experience, it’s crucial to follow a few key preparation steps.
● When booking your appointment, do not book a meeting immediately after your session. It is recommended that you leave at least one hour between the scheduled end of your appointment and your next activity/meeting. This is to give adequate time for the IV drip to finish.
● First, stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water before your appointment; this helps make your veins more accessible and prevents dehydration, which can make the process smoother. Bring a bottle of water for you to drink throughout the treatment.
● Having a light meal beforehand is also important to keep your energy and blood sugar levels stable to avoid feeling lightheaded or nauseous. If you are prone to having low blood sugar, ensure that you bring a snack to your session.
● Avoid caffeine and alcohol on the day of your therapy, as these can affect your hydration and overall comfort.
● Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up, since the IV will typically be placed in your arm.
● Let our Naturopathic Doctor know about any medications you’re taking or allergies you have to avoid any potential issues. If you’ve had difficulties with IVs in the past, such as challenging vein access or reactions,let the doctor know so plans can be made to ease the process.
● Getting a good night’s sleep before your session is essential for helping your body handle the therapy better and feel more at ease.
● Lastly, avoid smoking before your appointment, as it can impact your circulation and make the IV insertion more difficult. Taking these steps seriously can help you feel much more comfortable during and after your IV therapy session.
During your IV Therapy Session
Please be mindful of the following during your IV therapy session:
● At the beginning of your IV Therapy Session, your temperature, blood pressure and pulse will be measured.
● Use the washroom just before your session as you will be seated for 30-45 mins.
● When ready, have a seat and make yourself comfortable. Adjust the IV chair to your liking before the IV line is inserted.
● After the IV is inserted into your arm, do not touch the IV line. Do not move the arm that is being infused. Movement may make the IV fall out, or cause the needle to move and injure surrounding tissues in your arm.
● Do not change the drip rate of the IV. Changing the drip rate may impact how you feel at the end of the infusion.
● Please bring in quiet forms of entertainment so as to not disturb other patients in the clinic. Read a book, or listen to music/videos with headphones.
● Eat food or drink water whenever you are feeling thirsty or hungry.
● If you are experiencing any discomfort in your arm, or feeling unusual symptoms like extreme fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, swelling, nausea, etc. Please let the Naturopathic Doctor or a staff member know right away.
After your IV Therapy Session
Please be sure to drink water and eat a snack or meal after your IV therapy session. Do not engage in any intense exercise or activity. It is best to go home and rest. Let our naturopathic doctor know if you experience any pain, swelling, fever, or rash after your visit by calling (403- 452-5450), emailing (info@promotioncalgary.com) the clinic. If you are feeling very unwell, please get emergency medical care first, before contacting the clinic or call Alberta Health Link at 811.
IV Therapy/ Injection Prices
All patients must first have a Naturopathic Initial Assessment before the follow up visits can occur. Visit Fees are covered by Insurance. Supplies Fees are NOT covered by Insurance.