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Hydration / Dehydration & IV Therapy

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to an insufficient amount of water to support normal bodily functions. This can happen due to various reasons such as inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, or certain medical conditions. The negative effects of dehydration can range from mild discomfort to severe health complications. Here are some of the negative consequences of dehydration:

Impaired Cognitive Function: Dehydration can lead to difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and decreased cognitive performance. This is because the brain requires adequate hydration to function optimally.
Fatigue and Weakness: Dehydration can cause fatigue, weakness, and a general lack of energy. When the body lacks sufficient fluids, it can impact the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to cells, leading to feelings of tiredness.
Decreased Physical Performance: Dehydration can impair physical performance by reducing endurance, strength, and coordination. This is especially important for athletes and individuals engaging in physical activities.
Increased Risk of Heat-related Illnesses: When the body is dehydrated, it has a harder time regulating its temperature. This can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can be life-threatening.
Digestive Issues: Dehydration can lead to constipation and other digestive problems, as water is essential for proper digestion and bowel movements.
Kidney Function Impairment: The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products from the blood and maintaining electrolyte balance. Dehydration can strain the kidneys and lead to kidney stones or urinary tract infections.
Cardiovascular Strain: Dehydration can cause the heart to work harder to circulate blood, as the volume of blood decreases. This can strain the cardiovascular system and potentially lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Intravenous (IV) hydration is a medical intervention that involves delivering fluids directly into the bloodstream through a vein. IV hydration can help alleviate the negative effects of dehydration by rapidly replenishing the body’s fluid levels. Some benefits of IV hydration include:

Rapid Rehydration: IV fluids bypass the digestive system and are delivered directly to the bloodstream, allowing for faster absorption and rehydration compared to oral intake.
Electrolyte Balance: IV fluids can contain electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride, which are essential for maintaining proper cell function, nerve conduction, and fluid balance.
Immediate Relief: IV hydration can provide quick relief from symptoms of dehydration, such as fatigue, dizziness, nausea and headache.
Medical Management: IV hydration is often used in medical settings to treat severe cases of dehydration caused by conditions like vomiting, diarrhea, or severe infections.

It’s important to note that while IV hydration can be effective and necessary in certain situations, the best approach is prevention. Regularly drinking water and staying hydrated through balanced fluid intake is the most effective way to avoid the negative consequences of dehydration.

How to Prepare for Your IV Session

Welcome to IV Wellness, where we prioritize your well-being with our highly personalized IV sessions. First timer? Great! We love introducing people to the power of IV therapies, and we understand that you have many questions. In this article, we will guide you on how to prepare for your IV session and provide insights from Joanie Lingmerth RN, BSN, MBA, our owner and resident expert in the field. Discover what to expect during your session and how IV therapy can help alleviate various health issues and elevate your overall wellness.

Preparation:

When preparing for your IV session, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind. First and foremost, ensure you have something to eat before your session. IV Wellness recommends a small portion of starchy foods rather than fruits and vegetables. The reason behind this is if B- Complex (B1, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12) and zinc are desired and added to the IV solution, if infused on an empty stomach, they MAY cause nausea. AVOIDING a fruit/vegetable smoothie, for example, just before a vitamin infusion, is advised because they already contain vitamins and minerals, which could potentially cause an
overload when combined with the IV infusion.

In most cases, IV sessions are sought after due to dehydration, stomach flu or an inability to consume fluids orally. While some may suggest hydrating before your IV session, IV Wellness is staffed exclusively by highly experienced infusion nurses, and are able to find veins regardless of patients’ hydration levels. However, whenever possible, hydrating beforehand may make it easier to locate veins for those who are severely dehydrated. Keep in mind that our team of Registered nurses at IV Wellness has the expertise to ensure a successful IV placement, regardless of your hydration status.

Timing is Crucial:

To maximize the benefits of IV therapy for IMMUNE support, it’s important to receive treatment within 24 to 72 hours of experiencing your first symptom. Waiting for symptoms to pass before seeking IV therapy might allow the virus or bacteria to further establish itself. However, even if you reach out after this timeframe, an IV session can still help boost your immune system to regain its strength more quickly.

At the first sign of an illness, receiving IV therapy can have significant benefits. It can shorten the duration of your illness or even eliminate symptoms altogether. Joanie and her team of Registered nurses have witnessed such outcomes firsthand, not only with their clients, but with themselves and their families. By acting promptly and giving your immune system the boost it needs, you can potentially minimize the impact and duration of the illness.

What to Expect During Your IV Session

When you schedule an IV session with IV Wellness, here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect from start to finish. The entire process typically takes between 50 to 60 minutes from the Nurse’s arrival to departure.

1. Setup and Preparation:

Upon arrival, the Nurse will take approximately five to six minutes to set up the IV. This is usually done at a convenient location like a kitchen table with a chair. At IV Wellness, we prioritize your comfort and convenience during the IV session. Once the IV is started you have the freedom to select your preferred seating arrangement. Whether you choose to sit by the pool, work at your office, lounge on the couch, or even stay in bed, our mobile IV pole ensures flexibility and mobility. You can enjoy the infusion while going about your daily activities, such as using your computer, watching TV or relaxing in your favorite spot.

2. IV Insertion and Infusion:

Once the setup is complete, the nurse will begin the process of inserting the IV. The actual infusion time can range from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on various factors such as the person’s weight and/or previous experience with vitamin IVs, as well as a patient’s sensitivity level to vitamins. The actual dose of vitamin C (which is based on a patient’s weight) can also influence the infusion speed. The nurse will adjust the rate accordingly to ensure a comfortable experience.

3. Personalized Assessment and Prescription:

During the infusion, the nurse will ask you important questions that help determine which vitamins are most suitable for your needs. Unlike other places that may rely on “IV menus,” IV Wellness takes a personalized approach. The nurse carefully assesses your condition and discusses the best vitamin options for your specific requirements. All the vitamins used are prescription-grade and are added to the IV bag right in front of you, ensuring transparency and customization.

Another aspect that sets IV Wellness apart is the individualized dosing of immune-boosting vitamins, particularly Vitamin C. Your nurse will calculate the appropriate dose based on your body weight, ensuring maximum efficacy. For example, a person weighing 150 pounds would receive approximately 14,000 milligrams of Vitamin C, while a person weighing 300 pounds would receive nearly 30,000 milligrams. Higher doses of Vitamin C, Vitamin D, zinc, and glutathione contribute to the overall cost of the immune-boosting IV due to the higher product and prescription costs involved.

4. Open Communication:

Throughout the session, your Registered nurse will maintain open communication with you. They provide information about the dosages being administered for your personal health. This transparency allows you to be aware of exactly what is going into your system and ensures a collaborative experience. In addition, our nurses inform you of YOUR specific doses of Vitamin C and Glutathione in the event you are traveling and start to experience cold symptoms, you will be prepared and know exactly what to tell another IV Nurse exactly what you want or need.

5. Results:

Whether you’re recovering from a hangover, food poisoning, or a prolonged illness, IV therapy can offer rapid relief and immune support. If you’re dehydrated due to vomiting, diarrhea, or other factors, you can expect to feel better in less than 10 minutes after the IV fluids begin flowing into your bloodstream. The immediate hydration helps replenish your body, restoring vital fluids and electrolytes. Alternately, when you’re sick with conditions like COVID, flu, strep throat, or the common cold, an IV infusion can provide an immune boost that aids in your recovery. It usually takes 12 to 24 hours after the IV therapy for you to experience improvements. The next morning, you may notice a reduction in fever, sore throat, and other symptoms—around 75-90% of your discomfort may have dissipated.

Frequently Asked Questions:

As a first-timer, you may have more questions about what to expect during your IV session. Let’s address some of the most common concerns:

How long does the entire process take?

From the moment you arrive until the nurse’s departure, the entire IV session typically lasts 50 to 60 minutes. This includes the arrival of the infusion nurse, setting up the IV, and completing the infusion. The infusion itself can take anywhere between 25 to 40 minutes, depending up various factors.

How much will it cost?

The cost of IV therapy at IV Wellness ranges between $225 to $400 (if additional IV fluids are required). However, it’s important to note that the price varies based on the specific requirements of each client. Nurse Joanie emphasizes that IV Wellness is a mobile service, providing the convenience and privacy of receiving treatment in the comfort of your own home, business, hotel or event. This differentiates us from fixed-location med spas whose prices may appear lower since they don’t account for travel and additional time expenses.

The cost of your IV session is influenced by the purpose of the treatment. For instance, if you are seeking an IV session for hangover relief or food poisoning recovery, the price will be closer to $275. These sessions typically include fewer vitamins and lower doses of certain nutrients. On the other hand, if you require IV therapy for conditions like COVID, strep throat, flu, or the common cold, a comprehensive immune-boosting IV is recommended. This higher-tier IV session, priced at $350, includes ALL seven essential vitamins, with specific emphasis on vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and glutathione, with significantly higher doses of Vitamin C (these doses are based on YOUR weight). The inclusion of these vital components enhances your immune system’s response and aids in detoxification.

How many people can receive infusions simultaneously?

At IV Wellness, we can accommodate approximately four people receiving infusions at the same time. We have experience handling larger groups, such as parties with up to 20 people, including bachelor parties, bachelorette parties, showers, and wedding parties. As the fourth person gets connected, we begin disconnecting the first person and continue rotating in this manner. This allows for a continuous flow of infusions.

In terms of timing, we can typically take care of about five people within an hour and a half, or two to three people within an hour. Our goal is to provide efficient and personalized service, ensuring that everyone receives the attention and care they need during their infusion session.

What if I’m afraid of needles or have tiny veins?

Many individuals express fear or nervousness about needles. However, Joanie clarifies that once the needle gently enters the skin to access the vein, the needle is immediately withdrawn and only the catheter remains throughout the IV session. It’s quick and painless even for the most anxious of patients.

Some people believe they have tiny veins or consider themselves to be difficult sticks. First, note there are various sized needles suited for individual patient’s needs. Joanie emphasizes the importance of assessing vein size upon arrival. Interestingly, she notes that in her and her team’s experience, the majority of individuals who claim to have tiny veins actually have perfectly suitable veins for IV insertions. Often, previous experiences with less experienced practitioners who faced difficulties in finding the veins may have led to this perception. However, IV Wellness’s expertise enables them to locate veins efficiently and effectively, often achieving successful insertion on the first attempt.

We hope that answers all of your burning questions about IV therapy, but are always here to lend an ear and address all of your concerns. We want you to feel secure in your experience and trust in your results – your optimal wellness is our main priority. We can’t wait for you to fall in love with IV Wellness and feel truly revitalized.

What are the different types of IV therapy?

At IV Wellness, we embrace a holistic approach that goes beyond a standardized menu. Here, you’re not just another customer selecting from a list of options – instead, a skilled Registered Nurse guides you through a thoughtful consultation to craft a unique cocktail of vitamins and nutrients right before your eyes. With a mission to enhance well-being, we’re transforming the traditional notion of intravenous therapy, offering a bespoke experience designed exclusively for you. In this blog, we’ll explore our diverse range of IV therapies available. Discover how personalized IV therapy can elevate your immunity, recovery, and overall vitality, leaving you feeling revitalized and ready to take on anything.

It’s important to note that the specific composition of IV therapy can vary depending on the individual’s needs, medical condition, and the expertise of the healthcare provider administering the treatment. While the above list summarizes some of the main types of IV therapy discussed in the blog, we also offer additional options available beyond those mentioned.

Types of IV Therapies:

1. Immunity Boosting IV:

This type of IV therapy focuses on strengthening the immune system and can be beneficial for various illnesses, including strep throat, COVID-19, flu, and the common cold. Immune-boosting IV treatments typically include a combination of vitamins such as vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc, and glutathione, which are known for their immune-enhancing properties. These nutrients can help strengthen the immune response, reduce the severity and duration of illness, and support overall immune function. IV therapy delivers these nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system for faster absorption and maximum effectiveness. It does not require a specific diagnosis or testing, as we treat all illnesses with the same approach (note: the dose of Vitamin C is based on your weight).

2. Food Poisoning:

IV therapy can help with food poisoning by replenishing fluids, electrolytes, and essential nutrients that may have been lost due to vomiting and diarrhea. This rehydration and nutrient restoration aids in recovery and can help alleviate or decrease symptoms within 10-15 minutes…significantly faster than most other methods! For nausea and/or headache/pain, our Nurses can add IV Zofran and/or Toradol as needed.

3. Overindulgence:

This refers to IV therapy for individuals who may have indulged in excessive alcohol, quickly helping to rehydrate and replenish nutrients. IV therapy helps restore hydration, electrolyte balance, and essential nutrients, providing relief from hangover symptoms. Electrolyte-rich fluids, B vitamins, and antioxidants like glutathione are commonly used in these treatments. For nausea and/or pain, our Nurses can also add IV Zofran or Toradol. Be proactive… IVs can also be taken to prevent dehydration before a night of fun or weekend getaway.

4. Exercise and Sports Performance:

IV therapy is commonly used by athletes, runners, and individuals seeking to optimize their physical condition and performance. It typically includes a combination of hydration fluids, electrolytes, amino acids, and vitamins such as B complex, Glutathione and Magnesium. These nutrients support energy production and muscle recovery, and reduce oxidative stress caused by intense physical activity, helping athletes and fitness enthusiasts perform at their best and shorten recovery times. Unlike most oral supplements, IV treatments are pharmaceutical-grade, FDA approved and contain zero ingredients on the banned substances list for athletes.

5. Pregnancy-related Nausea:

IV therapy can assist pregnant women who experience nausea and vomiting, commonly known as morning sickness. By replenishing fluids and electrolytes, IV therapy helps alleviate dehydration and provides safe essential nutrients to support the health of both the mother and the baby. IV fluids, electrolytes, and selected vitamins and minerals can be administered to replenish fluids, restore electrolyte balance, and provide essential nutrients. While B vitamins are generally avoided due to concerns about excessive stimulation, other nutrients like magnesium, glutathione, Vitamin C and Zofran can be included to help alleviate symptoms of morning sickness, especially the most extreme cases. IV Wellness suggests the patient reach out to their OB/GYN or Midwife to get approval for any vitamins that are desired to add to the IV fluids.

6. Migraines:

IV therapy can be an effective option for managing migraines. It often involves a combination of fluids, electrolytes, and/or Toradol, specifically targeting migraine relief. Magnesium sulfate, in particular, has been shown to have a beneficial effect on reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. The treatment helps hydrate the body, balance electrolytes, and deliver magnesium sulfate directly into the bloodstream, providing rapid relief and potentially preventing/decreasing future migraine episodes.

7. Cancer Support (excluding chemotherapy):

IV therapy may be used as an adjunctive therapy for individuals with cancer. It aims to boost the immune system and provide supportive nutrients to promote overall well-being. It typically includes a combination of immune-boosting nutrients such as HIGH-dose vitamin C, Zinc and Vitamin D . High-dose vitamin C therapy has been proven safe and effective for cancer patients, however, is not recommended “during” chemotherapy, as it may interfere with immune suppression efforts. Therefore, it is important to consult with your oncologist or healthcare provider to ensure that IV therapy with high-dose Vitamin C does not interfere with your specific cancer treatments.

8. Jetlag:

IV therapy has been shown to help combat fatigue and exhaustion associated with jetlag.
Bvitamins, especially vitamin B12, play a crucial role in energy production and can help reduce the lethargy and exhaustion associated with jetlag. By rehydrating the body and providing essential nutrients, IV therapy can expedite the adjustment to a new time zone and help individuals feel more alert and energized.

Customized IV Therapies

Along with these individual therapies, patients can also request a more personalized IV experience. IV Wellness tailors each IV therapy to the individual patient’s needs, customizing the cocktail based on their specific situation. Our Registered Nurses help determine the necessary components by asking questions and considering the patient’s responses. The process involves preparing the custom IV right in front of the patient, before starting with the IV fluid administration.

The cocktail may consist of various vitamins and drugs, depending on the patient’s condition. For example, if the patient is sick, vitamin C, Zinc and D are typically included. The dosage of vitamin C is determined based on the patient’s weight with a known calculation. Additionally, B vitamins and zinc may be added, but the nurse ensures the patient has eaten to avoid potential nausea from these supplements on an empty stomach.

In the case of a hangover or food poisoning, where dehydration is a primary concern, additional fluid administration may be recommended. Headache relief can be addressed with the prescription painkiller Toradol, which belongs to the same class as non-prescription NSAIDs like ibuprofen. If the patient is experiencing nausea, Zofran may be provided. Glutathione, a potent detoxifying antioxidant, is particularly helpful in these cases because it helps “flush” toxins from the liver and GI tract (unless desired, high-dose vitamin C, Zinc and vitamin D are typically not necessary for these conditions, therefore reducing the price of a hangover/food poisoning IV).

The customization of the IV cocktail based on the patient’s specific needs helps optimize the effectiveness of IV therapy while considering cost and minimizing any potential adverse effects.

At IV Wellness, we believe in the power of personalized IV therapy to unlock your body’s full potential and optimize your well-being. Experience the difference that a customized, nutrient-rich IV treatment can make in your life. Whether you’re seeking immune support, recovery from a night of indulgence, relief from migraines, or a boost in athletic performance, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way. Embrace the opportunity to revitalize your body and embark on a transformative wellness journey.

Contact IV Wellness today to schedule your personalized IV therapy session and take the first step toward a healthier, more vibrant you.

Rejuvenate More Rapidly with IV Wellness: A New Era of Recovery is Here

Hello from the team at IV Wellness! Today we’re diving into a topic that affects each one of us at various points in our lives – dehydration, hangovers, and the dreaded stomach bug. We are all too familiar with traditional methods of recovery, but what if we told you there’s a revolutionary solution that is not only fast and efficient but is also tailored to your unique needs and conveniently brought directly to you? Let’s talk about the game-changer in wellness recovery – Intravenous (IV) Therapy.

The Old School Method

When faced with the discomfort of dehydration, the aftermath of a night of indulgence, a stomach bug, or food poisoning, our instinctual solution is usually to sip on water or electrolyte drinks, munch on bland foods, or resort to over-the-counter medications. While these methods can offer some relief, their effectiveness can be slow and inconsistent and, oftentimes, can cause more nausea/vomiting.

The reason? These traditional approaches rely on your digestive system to absorb the nutrients and fluids, a system that might not be at its best when you’re under the weather. As a result, it can take anywhere from several hours to days for your body to fully recover.

Weclome to IV Wellness

Now, let’s introduce you to the future of wellness and recovery – IV therapy. With IV therapy, vital fluids, vitamins, and medications are delivered straight into your bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This direct approach allows your body to quickly access essential nutrients, leading to more efficient and faster recovery times.

Whether it’s a hangover that won’t quit, post-workout fatigue, an annoying stomach bug or food poisoning, IV infusions are precisely designed to provide rapid relief. Our highly skilled medical team at IV Wellness customizes each IV drip based on your symptoms and recovery needs, ensuring your body gets exactly what it requires to bounce back promptly.

And here’s the best part – IV Wellness is a MOBILE service. We bring the recovery to you, whether at your home, office, event or hotel. No need to drag yourself out of bed and commute to a clinic. We prioritize your comfort and convenience, ensuring you receive the best care wherever you are.

The IV Wellness Advantage

Let’s put this in context. You’ve awakened feeling less than stellar after a night of festivities or perhaps a stomach bug has caught you off guard. Traditionally, you might spend the day resting, hydrating, and waiting for relief. But with IV Wellness, you could be feeling revitalized within an hour of your treatment, ready to seize the day. Plus, IV therapy ensures nearly 99-100% absorption of fluids and nutrients, a stark contrast to the 30-50% absorption rate from oral intake. This therapy isn’t just faster; it’s more efficient too!

Take the Leap with IV Wellness

We’ve witnessed how IV therapy can turn a sluggish day into a rejuvenated one. Our professional team is committed to providing safe, effective treatments tailored to your individual needs, all in the comfort of your chosen location.

If you’re ready to swap slow recovery times for a rapid, efficient solution, don’t hesitate to give us a call to book your appointment. Take charge of your wellness journey today with IV Wellness, where swift relief is just an IV drip away, delivered right to your door!

The Benefits of IV Therapy for Athletes

Potential benefits of IV therapy for athletes, as claimed by proponents, include:

1. Improved Hydration: Proper hydration is crucial for athletes’ performance and recovery. IV therapy delivers fluids directly into the bloodstream, ensuring rapid absorption, which may be beneficial for athletes who have undergone intense training sessions or competitions.

2. Efficient, Faster Nutrient Absorption: By bypassing the digestive system, IV therapy allows for immediate absorption (99-100%) of nutrients into the bloodstream. This can be advantageous for athletes who may have difficulty absorbing certain nutrients through traditional oral supplementation.

3. Enhanced Recovery: IV therapy can be customized to include specific vitamins, minerals, amino acids and electrolytes that aid in muscle recovery and reduce inflammation. Athletes who engage in intense training or competitions may benefit from this accelerated recovery process.

4. Increased Energy Levels: IV infusions can contain B-vitamins and amino acids, which are known to support energy production. Athletes looking to optimize their energy levels during training and competition may find this beneficial.

5. Immune System Support: Athletes are often susceptible to infections due to intense physical stress. IV therapy can provide a boost to the immune system by delivering HIGH-Dose vitamin C, Zinc, Vitamin D and other immune-supporting nutrients.

6. Anti-inflammatory Effects: Certain IV formulations can include antioxidants, such as Glutathione, that may help reduce inflammation, potentially aiding in injury prevention and recovery.

7. Customization: IV therapy can be tailored to the specific needs and goals of individual athletes, allowing for a personalized approach to supplementation.

It’s essential to approach IV therapy with caution and consider potential risks, such as infection at the injection site or, while extremely rare, mild allergic reactions to certain components. Athletes should always seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals or sports medicine experts before incorporating IV therapy into their routine.

Mobile IV Therapy not only is effective and convenient; but by law, can only be administered remotely (in a private setting)  by Registered Nurses or physicians. If you’re considering IV therapy, seek guidance from your physician or trainer first, then call IVWellness. We can provide personalized advice tailored to YOUR individual needs and come to your home, work, gym or event.  You will not be disappointed!