Anemia Support Group
Anemia (or anaemia), which literally means "without blood," is a deficiency of red blood cells and/or hemoglobin. This results in a reduced ability of blood to transfer oxygen to the tissues, and this causes hypoxia; since all human cells depend on oxygen for survival, varying degrees of anemia can have a wide range of clinical consequences.
Hello...I'm new here, and about to begin a series of 10 weekly iron infusions (with Venofer). I've been severely anemic in the past, and my ferritin level is currently 3.
My concern is that I have *terrible* veins. They are incredibly tiny and always cause great difficulty when inserting an IV or drawing blood (if they can get one at all). I'm not quite sure how I'm going to get through weekly infusions.
Has anyone needed infusions with AWFUL veins? Did you have to get a port or picc line put in?
Also, any experiences with Venofer IVs?
Thanks!
My concern is that I have *terrible* veins. They are incredibly tiny and always cause great difficulty when inserting an IV or drawing blood (if they can get one at all). I'm not quite sure how I'm going to get through weekly infusions.
Has anyone needed infusions with AWFUL veins? Did you have to get a port or picc line put in?
Also, any experiences with Venofer IVs?
Thanks!
I hope your experience will be uneventful and postive. According to what they told me, side effects are not really common. I'm sure some people do experience some, but all in all it seems to have a pretty good record. I hope it gets you feeling better soon!
So far, I cannot tell for sure if I feel a difference. Unfortunately, I have allergies that make me very tired this time of year. Also, have FMS and difficulty with sleep. However, there are days that I don't have to take a nap so that's a plus. Good luck with yours, let us know how you do!
I honestly was really skeptical about the results. I couldn't really put my finger on feeling "different" and then last week we went to Las Vegas and didn't rent a car! Well, we walked up and down the strip, many miles throughout the week, and all the sudden I realized, I could breath and walk SO MUCH BETTER!!! Before, I felt like I was walking through wet cement all day! By the time the afternoon rolled around, I hate to either lie down, or sit and rest! But I didn't have to do that!! It was wonderful and I was so amazed and proud of myself!! My ferritin was really low too, last count was 2.5 and I don't get my blood tests done until June 3! I can't wait to see what it's done for my results!
Now, in my opinion, it was worth the pain and worry that the infusions caused. Don't expect to feel like doing cartwheels, or jumping jacks, or running a marathon! But I think you will notice a change and you will be glad you did it!
@Caroline, how are you feeling now? I have been thinking about you!
I'm thrilled to hear how much these IVs help people, and I'm glad you had increased energy on your trip! I have a feeling these treatments (along with treating my hypothyroidism) will make a big difference in the way I feel.