What is Iron Deficiency & Who Does it Affect?
Iron Deficiency occurs when your body lacks sufficient iron to produce healthy red blood cells, which are essential for carrying oxygen throughout your body. When iron levels are low, it can lead to a range of symptoms that can significantly affect your day to day life. Iron deficiency is a common condition that can affect people of all ages, genders, and lifestyles. Recognizing the signs and seeking treatment is crucial to restoring your health.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy increases the body’s need for iron and many women experience iron deficiency during pregnancy or postpartum. Monitoring iron levels during this time is crucial for mom and baby. Infusions can be safely performed during the second and third trimesters.
Menstruation
Menstruation, especially heavy or prolonged bleeding, increases risk of iron deficiency. Iron deficiency also causes heavier periods creating a cycle that can be difficult to break with supplements alone. Keeping track of iron levels is essential to prevent deficiency and improve symptoms like fatigue.
Chronic Conditions & Digestion
Health conditions like chronic kidney disease, can affect your body’s ability to produce red blood cells. Digestive issues like Celiac, Crohn’s, or Ulcerative Colitis can reduce iron absorption and cause iron loss if bleeding is present. Infusions will replenish these levels when absorption is impaired.
Could Low Iron Be the Reason You're Not Feeling Like Yourself?
Iron plays a major role in keeping your body energized, focused, and functioning at its best. When your iron levels are low the effects can show up in more ways than you might expect.
Constant Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time, even after a good night's sleep? Low iron can leave your body running on empty, making it hard to get through the day without feeling drained or needing extra rest.
Headaches or Migraines
Recurring headaches or migraines can be your body's way of telling you something is off. When your brain isn't getting the support it needs that pressure builds up and can trigger ongoing discomfort.
Difficulty Focusing & Thinking Clearly
Are your thoughts feel slower that usual, your memory isn't as sharp, or finding yourself easily distracted? Low iron might be a major contributing factor. Even after a full night's sleep your brain can feel foggy and tired; many people describe it as feeling like they're not quite fully present. Everyday tasks take more effort and it can be frustrating to stay focused or keep up with conversations.
Sudden Dizziness You Can't Explain
Have you ever felt dizzy after standing up or walking up the stairs? It might not just be dehydration or low blood sugar. When your iron levels are low your body can struggle to transport enough oxygen which can leave you feeling lightheaded or off balance during everyday activities. If this sounds familiar, it may be time to consider checking your iron levels.
Subtle Changes in Complexion
A healthy complexion starts from within; when your iron is low your skin may lose some of its natural colour and glow. You might notice you look a little pale or more tired than you actually feel. These small changes are often one of the first signs your body is asking for support.
Cold Hands & Feet
If your hands and feet often feel cold even in a warm room or under blankets, it could be more than just poor circulation. Low iron can reduce your body's ability to move warmth to your fingers and toes, leaving them feeling chilly throughout the day. This is a common but often overlooked sign that your body may be running low on the nutrients it needs to feel balanced and comfortable.
Restless Legs at Night
If your get an uncomfortable, twitchy, or itchy feeling it your legs that makes it difficult to relax or fall asleep, it could be more than just restlessness. This sensation is a condition called Restless Leg Syndrome which can be caused by low iron. It may feel like you constantly need to move your legs, especially at night, making it challenging to sit still or get a restful sleep. Ferritin levels usually need to be above 75 for relief!
Shortness of Breath
Ever feel out of breath from something as simple as walking up the stairs or carrying groceries? When your iron levels are low your body can't deliver the support your muscles needs during movement. As a result, simple tasks can leave you feeling tired because your body is working overtime to keep up.
Hair Loss
Noticing more hair in your brush or after a shower lately? Iron deficiency can cause more hair fall, breakage, and dryness. For many people, this is one of the first visible signs that something in the body is out of balance.
Helpful Tip
You’ll be relaxing in our IV lounge while your bag drips. Bring something to do, such as headphones for music or a book to read.
What to Expect During Your Treatment
Your journey begins with a consultation where our Naturopathic Doctors assess your symptoms and recommend necessary lab tests. Once we have your results, we will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. If Iron IV Therapy is recommended, you can be referred to a Nurse Practitioner for a consult and Iron Infusions gets delegated to Dr. Ali Kala ND.
You will return to Willow for your infusions. Each session typically lasts between 1-2 hours, depending on your plan and comfort level. Following your session, it is normal to feel mild fatigue for the first 12-24 hours, but most patients begin feeling better within a few days. After you've received all the infusions your labs will be retested for us to see your progress!
How to Prepare for Your Infusion Treatment
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Review the Iron IV Info Booklet provided at your initial appointment to familiarize yourself with the procedure and what to expect.
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Sign the online consent form via email through your Jane account. Please complete this form prior to your appointment.
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Ensure you are well-hydrated and have eaten before your appointment to help your body better tolerate the infusion.
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Payment and Insurance: A portion of your Iron IV treatment can be direct-billed under Naturopathic coverage. The remaining balance is paid at the end of the appointment.
Follow Up
After completing all Iron IV treatments, your lab work will be retested, typically 4-6 weeks after treatment to ensure your iron levels have improved. We will review your results and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan to support your ongoing health.
Take the First Step Towards Restoring Your Energy
If you’re feeling constantly tired, foggy, or worn down, low iron may be the reason. At Willow London Naturopathic & IV Clinic, our Iron Infusion Therapy offers a fast and effective way to replenish your levels, so you can start feeling like yourself again. Our team takes the time to understand your needs and create a care plan that supports your health from the inside out.
FAQ
This answers the top questions we receive at Willow Naturopathic & IV Clinic about Iron Infusions. Don't see your question? Contact us directly for support!
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Are Naturopathic Services covered by OHIP?OHIP does not cover Naturopathic services, however, most private insurance plans will have some coverage for appointments and labs.
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Is direct billing available at Willow?Yes! We can direct bill most private insurance providers. There are some exceptions in which case you pay at the clinic and can submit the receipt for reimbursement. IV Therapy does not have direct billing
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Can Naturopathic Doctors run labs?Yes! Naturopathic Doctors can run routine lab work and in depth functional tests. Labs are not OHIP covered when ordered by an ND but may be covered by your benefits plan.
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Do I need an referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor?No! You are welcome to book yourself in online or through reception, no referral is needed.
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How do I prepare for my first visit?Before the initial visit fill out and submit the intake forms that were emailed with the visit confirmation. These will go through your health history, goals, and lifestyle habits. If you have access to any lab work and imaging please bring a copy with you or email them to reception before your initial visit.
