IV FAQs

Generally, IV therapy is considered a very safe and effective way to administer fluids, medication, and nutrients when performed by a trained medical professional. Occasionally, inflammation of the vein (termed phlebitis) or an infection may occur at the IV injection site. Symptoms include redness, warmth, and pain at the IV injection site. Warm compresses may be applied for comfort, and the patient should contact the practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen.

The unintentional administration of a therapy outside a vein, termed extravasation or infiltration, can also manifest with IV therapy. This happens when the IV catheter becomes dislodged from the vein and the IV fluid collects under the skin surrounding the vessel. This complication can cause some discomfort but is generally detected early when the patient is closely monitored by the medical professional.

A small percentage of patients may experience a reaction known as a vasovagal response. This reflex can be triggered by certain things like stress, pain, and fear. Some unpleasant symptoms may occur when the vagus nerve is stimulated such as: dizziness, nausea, ringing ears, sweating, and in some cases, fainting. A vasovagal episode can be frightening, but it’s not usually a sign of a health emergency. The medical professional is trained to deal with a vasovagal response and will offer supportive care until there is a return to baseline status. Most who experience a vasovagal response recover quickly and are able to continue treatment. If you have a history of vasovagal response, please inform the registered nurse performing your IV infusion therapy, so your needs can be anticipated.

Side effects are infrequent with IV nutrient infusion therapy, and they are usually minor. The most common is a small amount of tenderness or mild bruising at the IV injection site for a day or two following an infusion. This in normal and will resolve on its own.

Some patients report a cool feeling in the arm during the infusion. This is because the IV fluid is typically stored room temperature, cooler than your 98.6 F body temperature. Another mild side effect that some experience during the first few minutes of the infusion is a “metallic taste” in the mouth. Occasionally, some report feeling a bit flushed.

Allergic reactions are very rare. Upon your initial consultation, Dr. Ruby will review your medical and allergy history to look for any potential contraindications to treatment.

Once you make your Optimal Wellness for Life Infusion Visit appointment, you will receive a packet of information to complete before your first visit. Upon arrival, you will check in at the front desk, turn in your new patient paperwork, and pay for the infusion package. First time patients will have a short 10-15-minute consultation with Dr. Ruby prior to the infusion. (Patients who have a current membership at OW, may not need to participate in the pre-infusion consult). Dr. Ruby will review your medical history, looking for any possible contraindications to treatment, go over allergy history and help determine the right infusion for you, based on your treatment goals.

The RN will prepare your infusion once your treatment plan is verified by Dr. Ruby. You will be escorted to the infusion room to begin treatment. The RN will verify your identity and treatment plan, then obtain a baseline set of vital signs. The IV catheter will be inserted, and the infusion started. You will be carefully monitored throughout the procedure. Most patients find the experience very relaxing. You may like to recline in our comfortable chairs, take advantage of free Wi-fi, listen to relaxing music, sip on some water, or snuggle up with a blanket and pillow. You are welcome to bring snacks, your favorite beverage, or that good book you’ve been trying to find time to finish!

Upon completion of the infusion, another set of vital signs will be taken. The IV catheter will be carefully removed, gauze and pressure applied, then secured with a wrap. You may schedule your next appointment or call when you are ready to return.

The most important thing you can do to prepare for your IV infusion visit is to stay hydrated. Drink a glass or two of pure water the evening before your visit, and about an hour before you arrive. Hydration causes your veins to plump up and improves venous access.

Remind yourself that IV nutrient therapy is a positive experience and something you are doing to improve your overall wellbeing. By staying calm and positive, you can allow yourself to be refreshed and rejuvenated by the entire experience.

Bring your favorite snack and/or decaffeinated beverage, a book to read, or other preferred entertainment to promote relaxation and comfort.

Generally, you should plan 90 to 120 minutes for your first infusion visit; this includes time for your initial consultation with Dr. Ruby. For repeat visits, set aside 60 to 75 minutes for the infusion session. Please keep in mind that, the duration of each visit depends on the nutrient infusion being administered and your specific needs. Some can take as little as 15 minutes or as long as 2 hours to infuse. Our staff at Optimal Wellness for Life is fully committed to making sure the experience is as comfortable as possible.

Vitamin Absorption Guarantee: Because the IV delivery method bypasses the GI tract entirely, it can be an ideal option for people who have been unresponsive to oral supplementation. When taken orally, only a fraction (20-40% or less) of the essential nutrients are absorbed due to a variety of factors: unhealthy diet, insufficient essential nutrients, widespread prevalence of gastrointestinal problems, chronic illness and more. In contrast, 90-100% vitamin absorption is guaranteed when administered intravenously, reducing reliance on pills. For patients with chronic conditions who find it difficult, uncomfortable, or impossible to take oral supplements, infusion therapy can be a lifeline.

Instant Hydration: IV nutrient therapy provides instant hydration for individuals who have recently come out of surgery, those recovering from loss of fluids or electrolytes related to diarrhea or vomiting. Those suffering from hangover symptoms, too, can benefit from the immediate effects IV nutrient therapy and rehydration.

Improved Athletic Performance, Recovery, and Endurance: Athletes seeking to replenish and rehydrate after an intense workout enjoy the benefits of an expedient sports recovery with infusion therapy. Many athletes report improved athletic performance related to the reduced recovery time, the elimination of toxins and byproducts like lactic acid, and boosted endurance that IV nutrient therapy provides.

Age Management: Another documented benefit of IV nutrient therapy is age management. By eliminating free radicals and gently opening detoxification pathways, the damaging effects of UV rays can be reversed, supporting your skin health! Many patients claim to experience stronger hair and nails, clearer skin and improved eyesight as a result of IV nutrition.

Preventative Treatment and Protection: IV nutrient therapy is touted as an ideal preventative treatment. The immune system is supported and enhanced as the nutrients are directly delivered to the cells and help to fight free radicals in the body. It can also minimize the effects of environmental toxins on your delicate body systems.

And More! Others have also reported:

• increased energy

• improved migraine symptoms

• less anxiety

• improved stress management

• better sleep

• less pain

• expedited recovery from post-illness fatigue

No two people are alike, so it’s hard to pinpoint exactly how long you’ll feel the effects of treatment. Part of this depends on your body’s metabolism, as IV fluids will remain in your system until they are metabolized and excreted. In general, however, you may experience an elevation in mood, concentration, and energy for three or four days after treatment. The positive effects on cellular function can last up to 2-3 weeks, though you may not “feel” any different.

It’s important to remember that a variety of factors influence your results. These include nutrient imbalances and overall health. Another factor is dehydration, which can occur at any time and is more common than you might think.