Infusion therapy is a powerful alternative to oral medicines. It involves an intravenous administration of medication directly into the patient’s bloodstream. Typically, the process requires a needle or catheter injected into the vein to allow a smooth flow in the body. Although there are various benefits, there are some side effects of infusion therapy that people must be educated about.
A closer look at infusion therapy
Infusion therapy is an essential medical treatment that delivers medications, fluids, and nutrients directly into a patient’s bloodstream through a needle or catheter. This method is often necessary for patients with conditions that require immediate or high-dose medication, such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, infections, and more. Also, some medicines, when taken orally, are very harsh on the gut. In such cases, infusion therapy proves to be a reliable substitute. Below are some uses of this therapy:
- Delivering medications: Such as chemotherapy or antibiotics.
- Providing hydration: For patients unable to drink enough fluids.
- Nutritional support: For those who cannot eat or absorb nutrients effectively.
Common side effects of infusion therapy
There are some undeniable advantages of infusion therapy, but some people also experience a range of side effects. Although it is generally safe, it may sometimes lead to unpleasant circumstances depending on the patient’s sensitivity, type of medicine, and infusion duration. These are some examples of side effects that patients report during or after infusion therapy:
Infusion site reactions
One of the most common complaints witnessed during the therapy is that of reactions at the site of the infusion. These are largely localized, meaning that if the IV is inserted into the hand, there will be a reaction on just the hand. To simplify, an example would be the development of swelling and redness around the needle. This may be due to irritation from the needle itself or due to the infused fluid. Other times, Patients might experience discomfort or pain at the infusion site, especially if the catheter is in place for an extended period. Occasionally, phlebitis or vein inflammation may persist.
Allergic reactions
Some people may develop an allergic reaction from the type of medicine being delivered. These can be mild or very prompt, depending on the severity of the allergy. These reactions may take the form of skin rashes, hives, itching, or irritation. In more grave instances, anaphylaxis can occur, leading to difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a rapid drop in blood pressure.
Nausea and vomiting
Another commonly reported side effect is nausea and vomiting during or after infusion therapy, sometimes lasting for days. It is especially witnessed in patients of chemotherapy. To manage this, healthcare providers often prescribe anti-nausea medications in advance. If a patient feels queasy or vomits, they should let their doctor know. Often, minor changes to the treatment regimen or taking additional supplements will help.
Changes in Blood Pressure
Infusion therapy can lead to fluctuations in blood pressure. Some patients may experience hypotension (low blood pressure) or hypertension (high blood pressure) during or after the infusion. These changes can occur due to the volume of fluid being infused or the specific medication’s effects on the cardiovascular system. Healthcare providers monitor vital signs during treatment to manage any significant changes and take appropriate actions to stabilize the patient.
Fatigue and weakness
When infusion therapy is done for chronic conditions, it may be accompanied by fatigue and weakness. Fatigue may result from the body’s response to the medication, the stress of treatment, or the underlying condition being treated. Rest and proper nutrition can help combat fatigue, and patients are encouraged to listen to their bodies and take breaks as needed. Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers can also ensure appropriate support and management strategies are in place.
Electrolyte imbalance
When large volumes of fluids are dispensed into the body, they may disrupt the usual electrolyte balance. Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium play critical roles in various bodily functions, including heart and muscle activity. Therefore, an imbalance may result in unpleasant symptoms like muscle lethargy and cramps, heart palpitations, confusion, or fatigue.
Headaches
Some patients also experience headaches as a reaction to different conditions like blood pressure fluctuations, electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, or medicinal side effects. Staying well-hydrated before and after the infusion can help mitigate headaches resulting from infusion therapy.
Variations in Temperature
Body temperature swings are possible in patients receiving infusion therapy. During infusion, some people may feel hot or flushed, while others may feel cold. The body’s response to the medicine or the infusion itself may be the cause of this response. During infusion therapy, monitoring temperature is a normal aspect of care, and the healthcare team will handle any major changes.
Ways to manage and ease the symptoms
Although adverse side effects can be upsetting, there are a few ways to properly handle them:
The Key Is Communication
It’s crucial to communicate openly with healthcare professionals. No matter how small they may seem, all side effects should always be reported by patients. With the use of this data, healthcare professionals can modify treatment programs, offer more assistance, or prescribe drugs to reduce symptoms.
Prior to Infusion
Healthcare professionals may advise pre-medication with anti-nausea or anti-anxiety drugs for patients who are at high risk for side effects, such as those receiving chemotherapy. These can assist in reducing possible adverse effects before they manifest.
Drinking Water and Eating Right
One way to lessen the chance of experiencing some side effects, like headaches and electrolyte imbalances, is to drink plenty of water both before and after the infusion. Furthermore, eating a balanced diet helps improve general health and vitality.
Rest and Healing
Patients should prioritize rest and downtime following their infusion treatments because fatigue is a typical side effect. One can efficiently manage fatigue by paying attention to their body and taking pauses when necessary.
Aftercare
Patients might need to schedule follow-up appointments after the infusion in order to watch for any delayed adverse effects. Checking in with healthcare professionals on a regular basis will guarantee that any new problems are dealt with right away.
Read Also: What Types of Conditions is Infusion Therapy Used for?
In summary
A potent tool in contemporary medicine, infusion therapy provides efficient care for a variety of ailments. It is imperative that patients are cognizant of the possible adverse reactions linked to this course of treatment. Patients can handle the infusion procedure more easily if they know what to expect and keep lines of communication open with healthcare providers. If you or your family members need careful and regulated infusion therapy, visit the Nearest Primary Care Clinic in Bedford, Texas.
