Intravenous therapy or IV therapy involves delivering hydration and nutrition directly in a person’s bloodstream so that the body can instantly absorb and use the fluids. IV hydration is the quickest method as the fluids don’t have to pass through the digestive system and can reach organs right away. The absorption rate in oral hydration is around 20-40% which goes up to 90-100% through IV therapy.
More than 30% of patients in the ICU receive intravenous hydration during the first day of their treatment. It is perfect for patients who can’t take medicines orally, are deficient in nutrients, or are dehydrated. Also, IV hydration supports recovery for athletes, replaces lost body electrolytes and fluids, and enhances your immunity. In this post, we’ll read about what is hydration therapy and its various benefits for users.
What is IV Hydration Therapy?
When a person cannot hydrate through his intestines because of a medical issue or by drinking liquids, then this therapy helps deliver fluids and water directly in the body for rapid rehydration. The fluid used comprises water mixed with certain electrolytes similar to the fluids that flow in our body.
You will find drip bars or hydration bars outside of ICUs or hospitals that provide IV hydration therapy to individuals, even without any prescription. A nurse practitioner or doctor inserts a cannula into the patient’s vein, generally inside the arm’s crook. Next, a tube filled with fluids is attached that drips down the liquid directly into veins. The fluids readily enter the body bypassing the gastric system and the patients receive hydration as quickly as possible.
Benefits of IV Hydration
People suffering from dehydration require IV hydration therapy, and even healthy people use it sometimes for well-being of their body. The following are some hydration IV benefits for people.
Improved Hydration
The most important benefit is that it inserts fluids directly into the body for optimal hydration. Just drinking water isn’t enough as the digestive system absorbs a lot of it. In cases of weakness or dehydration, hydration is the best option to quickly restore body fluids for proper body functioning.
Better Immunity
IV hydration therapy provides several minerals and vitamins to the body that fight against diseases. IV fluids are rich in Vitamin C and B12, along with compounds like magnesium, that enhance the immune system.
Reducing the Time for Recovery
Whether you are tired after a high-intensity sports match, a flight, or a workout, hydration allows you to recover quickly. The body recovers most of the electrolytes and fluids lost which refreshes everything and ensures well-being. You also get a happy mood, proper sleep, and less fatigue.
Better Functioning of Muscles, Skin & Joints
Skin cells are sensitive to dehydration and start drying, wrinkling, and losing their complexion. It also leads to weakness in the muscles affecting the functions of joints. Hydration therapy is beneficial for the skin as it prevents dryness and improves its complexion. Antioxidants and nutrients present in IV fluids also help repair damaged cells, muscles, and joints.
Better Physical & Cognitive Function
In case of dehydration, the brain works slowly and doesn’t process information properly. This can lead to impaired memory, low concentration, and fatigue. IV hydration rehydrates the brain ensuring proper information processing and cognitive functions.
Some organs like the kidney also falter when they aren’t hydrated properly. IV therapy pumps fluid inside the system which expels toxins from the kidney and ensures most organs work as they should.
Conclusion
From boosting your immune system to ensuring proper functioning of your organs, the benefits of IV hydration are immense. Lack of water and other essential fluids is dangerous, and you must consider IV hydration if you want to stay healthy and energetic at all times.
Consulting experienced nurse practitioners like Careecia Porter Wallace will give you access to proper hydration therapy depending on the condition of your body and its requirements.