Doctors consulting at Hoppers Lane GP provide Implanon insertions and removals right here at the clinic.
Implanon, sometimes called “the Rod”, is a common long-acting reversible contraceptive available in Australia.
Feeling tired from time to time is normal. A busy week, poor sleep, stress or a change in routine can all leave you feeling low on energy.
But when fatigue persists, affects your ability to get through the day, or doesn’t improve with adequate rest, it may be worth speaking with your GP. There are many possible causes of ongoing fatigue, and iron deficiency is one of them.
Could Low Iron Be Causing Your Fatigue?
Iron plays an important role in helping your body produce haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. When iron levels become too low, you may begin to experience symptoms such as:
- Ongoing tiredness or weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Heart palpitations
Some people with iron deficiency have few or no noticeable symptoms, while others find it significantly affects their energy levels and day-to-day life.
Importantly, fatigue can have many causes. Rather than assuming low iron is responsible, a GP can assess your symptoms and determine whether further investigation is needed.
Why Does Iron Deficiency Happen?
Iron deficiency can occur for a number of reasons. These may include heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy, dietary factors, gastrointestinal conditions that affect iron absorption, or blood loss.
If iron deficiency is suspected, your GP may recommend blood tests to check your iron levels and investigate the underlying cause. Blood tests can be completed following your consultation at the Clinical Labs pathology collection centre located onsite at Hoppers Lane GP.
Identifying why your iron levels are low is an important part of deciding on appropriate treatment.
How Do I Know If I Have Low Iron?
You can’t tell whether you have iron deficiency based on symptoms alone. While fatigue, weakness, dizziness and difficulty concentrating can be associated with low iron, these symptoms can also have many other causes.
Your GP will also consider why your iron levels may be low. Depending on your results, symptoms and medical history, further investigation may be recommended to identify the underlying cause.
How Is Iron Deficiency Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the deficiency, as well as your individual circumstances.
For many people, oral iron supplements are the first treatment recommended. Dietary changes may also form part of managing iron deficiency.
However, oral iron isn’t suitable or effective for everyone. Some people experience side effects, have difficulty absorbing iron, or require iron to be replaced more quickly.
In these circumstances, an iron infusion may be considered.
What Is an Iron Infusion?
An iron infusion delivers iron directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line.
Before an infusion is recommended, a GP will generally review your symptoms, medical history and recent blood test results to determine whether it is appropriate for you.
Iron infusions are administered under medical supervision, and patients are monitored during and following the procedure.
What Happens During an Iron Infusion?
An iron infusion delivers iron directly into your bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line.
A nurse will insert the IV line, usually into a vein in your hand or arm, and the prescribed iron will be administered through a drip.
Your vital signs, such as your blood pressure, pulse and temperature, will be checked, and you will be monitored during the infusion and afterwards for any unexpected reactions.
The length of the infusion depends on the type and amount of iron prescribed. You should allow sufficient time for both the infusion and the required monitoring afterwards.
What Happens After an Iron Infusion?
Most people can drive home and return to their normal activities following an iron infusion unless they experience an unexpected reaction.
A follow-up blood test is generally required 2 to 4 weeks after the infusion to check whether your iron levels have improved.
Your doctor can advise you about follow-up testing and any ongoing treatment you may need.
Iron Infusions at Hoppers Lane GP
If you have symptoms that may be associated with iron deficiency, the first step is to book an appointment with an appointment at Hoppers Lane GP to discuss your symptoms and arrange appropriate testing.
Source: Healthdirect Australia, Iron Deficiency and Iron Infusion.