What Is IV Hydration?
IV hydration delivers fluids, electrolytes, and other important elements directly into the patient's bloodstream. For years, this treatment has been a powerful tool for medical emergencies, surgical recovery, and other essential medical interventions. Recently, it has grown in popularity as people looking to improve athletic performance, boost immunity, and improve overall wellness are discovering its benefits.
Basics of IV hydration
During IV hydration, fluids are delivered directly into a patient's vein through a small catheter. The fluids typically include saline solution, electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. An IV drip may also include medication, depending on the patient's needs. IV hydration is administered in a medical setting to prevent and treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Uses for IV hydration
IV hydration has a wide range of healthcare applications, from essential medical interventions to wellness improvement.
Essential medical interventions
IV hydration is medically necessary when the body needs hydration immediately and cannot get it orally or will have trouble absorbing it. For example, it is essential to rapidly rehydrate the body in cases of severe dehydration due to heat-related causes, injuries, or other illnesses. A healthcare professional administers IV hydration postoperatively to ensure proper hydration, reduce the risk of complications, and support the healing process. For the management of certain chronic conditions such as kidney disease and diabetic ketoacidosis, this treatment helps maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance. Emergency providers will also employ IV hydration in a range of emergencies, including the treatment of drug overdoses, shock, and sepsis.
Wellness improvements
The popularity of IV hydration is growing in the wellness industry as patients seek new and effective ways to enhance their overall health. Common wellness applications include the following:
- Hydration and energy boost: Helps provide an immediate energy boost to combat fatigue.
- Hangover recovery: Aids in relieving the symptoms of a hangover, including headache and nausea.
- Athletic performance: Can help enhance athletic performance or support athletic recovery.
- Detoxification: Helps to support the body's natural detox process.
- Cognitive function: May help improve focus and mental clarity.
- Immune support: Can support the immune system during flue season or periods of high stress.
Some patients find IV hydration useful in supporting weight loss efforts and providing anti-aging benefits such as improved skin radiance and elasticity.
Benefits of IV hydration
What makes IV hydration so valuable, in addition to its versatility, is its ability to deliver rapid hydration. Normally, fluids must pass through the digestive system before being absorbed into the bloodstream. The entire process can take several hours, which is less efficient, especially in situations where rapid rehydration is necessary. With IV hydration, fluids, electrolytes, and other essential elements can be delivered directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system for 100% absorption.
How treatment works
The treatment can vary per patient but is fairly simple and minimally invasive. Several factors, including the patient's age, weight, health circumstances, and the reason for treatment, determine the amount and type of fluid needed. The patient will sit comfortably while the provider sterilizes the injection site (typically on the arm inside the elbow) and uses a needle to insert a small catheter into the vein. Then, the IV bag with the fluids is connected to the catheter to start the infusion process. The patient can relax and read or listen to music during treatment, usually lasting 45 minutes to an hour.
Important considerations for IV hydration
IV hydration is a simple and safe procedure that aims to tailor to the patient's specific needs in a safe and sterile healthcare environment to provide optimal health outcomes. However, it still requires the skill and guidance of a medical professional.
Risks and complications are rare but may include infection, fluid overload, air embolism, collapsed veins, or other injection site-related injuries. The risk of these complications significantly decreases when a medical professional administers treatment. In addition, the provider will monitor the patient to ensure they are comfortable and have no adverse reactions.
Discover the benefits of IV hydration today
Spine & Joint Regenerative Medicine provides quality medical care to patients of all ages, including innovative treatments from the fields of chiropractic care, sports rehabilitation, and regenerative medicine. We take a customized and holistic approach to patient care and aim to address the source of an issue and not just the symptoms. To learn more about the benefits and applications of IV hydration, call our team or schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://sjrm-tn.com or call Spine & Joint Regenerative Medicine at (423) 424-1529 for an appointment in our Ooltewah office.
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