What is IV therapy?
IV therapy involves the use of intravenous fluids and infusions that are administered through a tiny, sterile needle in your arm to increase your hydration and vitamin levels within an hour. IV therapy is commonly used in hospitals for patients undergoing surgery, giving birth, or recovering from an illness. With IV therapy at Harbor Comprehensive Health, you can get the same level of care as at a hospital with the comfort of a private room in a non-emergency setting.
When is IV therapy recommended?
IV therapy is an option for most patients, though the team can determine if it’s safe for you during a consultation and physical exam. IV therapy and vitamin infusions can help with:
- Fatigue
- Cold and flu symptoms
- Upset stomach due to illness or recovery after food poisoning or drinking alcohol
- Muscle fatigue after an athletic or endurance event
- Dehydration
While IVs contain a sterile saline — or saltwater — solution, your provider can add infusions that contain vitamin C, B-complex, and other vitamins and minerals to aid in recovery after an illness or simply to improve your fluid and vitamin intake within a short time frame.
How does IV therapy work?
IV therapy quickly increases your hydration levels by introducing IV fluids directly into your bloodstream. In many cases when you’re dehydrated or sick to your stomach, it’s hard to drink enough water to rehydrate quickly. IV therapy allows you to improve your hydration within about an hour so you can avoid the symptoms of dehydration, like fatigue, poor concentration, and headaches.
IV therapy also bypasses your digestive system to deliver fluid and nutrients when you’re sick to your stomach or getting over the flu or food poisoning. Sometimes eating nutrient-dense foods or taking vitamins can upset your stomach more, so IV therapy offers a convenient solution to improve your nutrition until you’re feeling better.
What should I expect when getting IV therapy?
When your IV is inserted, you may feel a slight prick or pinch. The needle is then attached to your IV bag via a tube that allows for a continuous drip of fluids into your bloodstream. It takes about one hour to complete the drip, then your provider returns to remove the needle from your arm and you can return to your daily routine. Most patients report feeling more energized and focused after receiving IV therapy.
To find out how IV therapy can help you, call Harbor Comprehensive Health or schedule a visit online now.
