We are unhealthy. Hospitals are full of unhealthy patients looking for a quick pill or remedy to make them feel better while they continue to treat their bodies like garbage disposals. Sugar shops are popping up on every corner and Americans continue to get fatter. When will this all stop?
Have you heard of IV Therapy?
IV Hydration Therapy is starting to become a normal part of our everyday lives.
For many people receiving care in a hospital or emergency room, one of the most common occurrences (and biggest fears) is getting an IV, the intravenous catheter that allows fluids and medications to flow into a vein in your arm or hand. It can sting and it’s a real fear, but that should not prevent you from getting the jammed-packed benefits of an IV Treatment.
How does an IV work?
A trained health professional puts in an IV by sticking a needle that’s inside a thin tube (catheter) through the skin into a vein. Once inside the vein, the needle is removed. The catheter is left in the vein and taped down to keep it from moving or falling out. While IV lines are typically painless, the initial needle stick can be quite painful, especially for those who are a “difficult stick” (when the needle misses the vein, requiring multiple attempts).
IVs can be medically needed when the digestive system isn’t working well, to receive more fluids than you’re able to drink, to receive blood transfusions, to get medication that can’t be taken by mouth, and for a host of other treatments. In cases of massive bleeding, overwhelming infection, or dangerously low blood pressure, IV treatments can dramatically increase the chances of survival.
Prime IV Therapy: IVs on demand
And this brings us to a relatively new trend: the option to receive IV fluids even when it’s not considered medically necessary or specifically recommended by a doctor. In many places throughout the US, you can request IV fluids and you’ll get them. A nurse or physician’s assistant will place an IV catheter in your arm and you’ll receive IV fluids in while sitting in a massage chair, in your home, in your office, or in your hotel room. There’s even a mobile “tour bus” experience that administers the mobile IV hydration service. Some services offering IV hydration include a “special blend of vitamins and electrolytes,” and, depending on a person’s symptoms (and budget), an anti-nausea drug, a pain medication, heartburn remedies, and other medications may be provided as well.
And no, it’s not covered by your health insurance — more on the cost in a moment.
Why would anyone do this?
When I first heard about this, that’s the question I asked. Why, indeed? People may seek out IV fluids on-demand for:
- hangovers
- sickness
- dehydration from the flu or “overexertion”
- food poisoning
- jet lag
- getting an “instant healthy glow” for skin and hair
Many of the early adopters of this new service have been celebrities (and others who can afford it) including Kate Upton, Kim Kardashian, Simon Cowell, and Rihanna.
Are IV fluids effective or necessary for these things?
Some people who get the flu (especially the very young and very old) need IV fluids, but they’re generally quite sick and belong in a medical facility. Most people who have exercised a lot, have a hangover, jet lag, or have the flu can drink the fluids they need. That’s if they actually take the time and have the disciple.
If you’re able to drink fluids, that’s the best way to get them.
Is it worth going to a Prime IV Location?
I’ll admit I was skeptical. (Could you tell?) I am slow to the latest trend and like to see some results before I try anything out.
But…
I think the health benefits outweigh the risk of a slight sting or a pinch. Most Americans suffer from dehydration and lack nutrients. A simple IV treatment can give you the extra boost your body needs.
You may be questioning if IV treatment is for you. We hear all the time about how important it is to drink enough and to remain “well-hydrated.” It’s common to see people carrying water bottles wherever they go; many of them are working hard to drink eight glasses of water a day, though whether this is really necessary is questionable.
And then there’s the power of the stories people tell (especially celebrities) describing how great they felt after getting IV fluid infusions. If you have a friend who says they feel much better if they get IV fluids to treat (or prevent) a hangover, who am I to say they’re wrong? The same can be said for those who believe they look better after getting IV fluids as part of getting dolled up for a night on the town.
What about the cost?
While the benefits of IV fluids on demand are unproven and the medical risks are low (but real), the financial costs are clear. For example, one company offers infusions for $199 to $399. The higher cost is for fluids with various vitamins and/or electrolytes and other medications. Keep in mind that the fluids and other therapies offered can be readily obtained in other ways (drinking fluids, taking generic vitamins, and other over-the-counter medications) for only a few bucks.
The bottom line on IV Therapy
In recent years, more and more options have become available to get medical tests or care without actually having a specific medical reason and without the input of your doctor. MRIs, ultrasounds and CT scans, recreational oxygen treatment, and genetic testing are among the growing list of options that were once impossible to get without a doctor’s order. Treatments are becoming more available and people are taking advantage of this.
It would be nice if people would drive past their local POP and donut shop and do something for their health. IV Therapy is a great option and we have a Prime IV location right here in Lehi.