Although the idea of intravenous (IV) therapy was first noted in medical journals from medieval times, it wasn’t until the 1930s that the true power of IV therapy was discovered — used by Dr. Thomas Latta to reduce cholera symptoms. And IV therapy remains just as important today.
You know that IVs are used during surgeries and even during labor and delivery. IV therapy can also be used outside of a hospital setting in order to quickly provide you with fluids, medications, and even nutrients.
At Shine Health and Wellness, Dr. Kimberly Shine and our experienced team are proud to offer IV therapy so you can get the nutrients and fluids you need when you need them. If you’re contemplating IV therapy, here’s what you need to know.
What is IV therapy?
IV therapy is a type of therapy in which fluids (sometimes containing medication or nutrients) are administered directly into a vein via a small tube called a catheter. IV therapy can quickly supply your body with:
- Hydration via saline
- Vitamins, including vitamin C and the B complex
- Medications
IV therapy does require a quick stick with a needle, which allows the catheter access to your vein.
IV therapy offers speedy delivery
Because the fluid or medication is administered directly into your vein, the fluids start circulating in your bloodstream immediately. Oral supplements, on the other hand, must first travel through your digestive system, which admittedly is the longer route and may diminish the quality of the nutrients you’re getting.
You can avoid common side effects of oral supplements
Oral supplements are substances you consume via the mouth and must travel through your digestive system. Oral supplements come in many forms, including liquids, tablets, capsules, and chewable tablets.
Some medications and supplements can irritate various parts of your digestive tract. For instance, certain vitamins might aggravate acid reflux disease while other supplements may cause an upset stomach.
Irritation of the stomach lining is a common side effect of the oral delivery method. IV therapy bypasses the entire digestive system so you don’t have to worry about irritating your stomach lining.
There’s no need to swallow pills
A 2018 study revealed a startling statistic: As many as 40% of American adults have a difficult time swallowing pills of any size. Even worse, some supplements come in large, hard-to-swallow tablets.
If you’re one of the 40% who dislikes taking oral supplements, you’re not alone. IV therapy eliminates this problem and supplies you with the nutrients you need — sans tablet.
Customized therapies
The IV nutrition therapies we offer at Shine Health and Wellness are easily customized to address your specific health needs. Dr. Shine tailors each blend for the just-right combination of:
- Fluids
- Medications (if needed)
- Nutrients (if needed)
Your specific treatment depends upon what condition you’re addressing and your health goals.
While there is a time and place for oral supplements, IV therapy can be a solution for you if you need hydration, vitamins, or other medications quickly. It’s safe and effective under a doctor’s supervision.
If you’d like to find out if IV therapy can help you get the nutrients you need, request an appointment at our Pasadena, California, office by calling 626-225-2775, or request an appointment online with our booking system.
