IV Therapy for Adults and Children

Infusion therapy has many benefits, whether it’s providing essential nutrients, addressing dehydration, or just simply making people feel better. At Saving Grace, we provide infusion services for both adults and children.

Infusions Services for Adults

If you’re like many people, you probably take a multivitamin or supplement every day. Did you know that since the vitamins and supplements we take orally have to go through the digestive tract, our bodies can only absorb about one half of the nutrients?

Intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy allows for 100% absorption and leaves you feeling hydrated and refreshed! 

IVs can be used for a wide variety of reasons. Patients utilize IV vitamin replacement to have that quick recharge and often report feeling better by the time the IV is complete. IV therapy is great for when you are recovering from surgery, after an illness (such as the flu or stomach bug), post workout/running marathon, for anti-aging and for people who have gene mutations that make it difficult to absorb vitamins. 

They are also beneficial when traveling to avoid or recover from jet lag and dehydration. Different formulations are available based upon symptoms and desired result and can be highly specific such as IV’s formulated to benefit hair and nails. In short, many vitamins are difficult (if not impossible) to obtain in our daily diet. So, the opportunity to receive these vital nutrients at the cellular level is a great way to support a healthy lifestyle. Anti-aging vitamins administered via IV allow patient to achieve optimal therapeutic levels.

Infusion Services for Children

In pediatrics, certain IV fluids or medication serve several purposes including rehydration and anti-nausea (very helpful for a variety of stomach bugs) to help your child recover quickly.

Another common use is to treat migraine – especially for the teenager who often suffers with these terrible and recurrent headaches. IV therapy can be given with a special “headache formulation” to help with the acute pain and rid them of their headache quickly. It is terrible to watch your child suffer with pain and IVs are an option to help in these instances.

If you’re interested in exploring what infusion therapy can do for you, check out our infusion services page and see which one could be right for you.

Managing Seasonal Allergies in Children

Four Tips for Keeping Symptoms in Check

We live in the wonderful but windy state of Oklahoma! Ranked as the 3rd worst state for allergies, it is a reality that many of us deal with seasonally and for some, year-round. To avoid or reduce allergy symptoms, we recommend being proactive. Although it’s not ideal to take medication daily; sometimes it can’t be avoided during “peak allergy season”. For example, if the spring season always brings you allergy symptoms, start your allergy regimen ahead of rising histamine levels.

Here are some ways to manage seasonal allergies.

Antihistamines

What is an antihistamine? An antihistamine blocks the effects of rising histamine in your body. Histamine is what is responsible for that annoying itchy nose and eyes, swelling and increased mucous. Antihistamines can cause drowsiness so they are best taken before bed. Benadryl is typically the most sedating while the newer versions (Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra) are usually better tolerated.

Decongestants

Decongestants work differently than antihistamines and help with nasal stuffiness by constricting blood flow in your nasal passages. However, they also can cause side effects and should be administered with care. Decongestants can be safely taken in combination with an antihistamine but, in young children, always consult with your provider before administering decongestants. 

Nasal Corticosteroid Sprays

Nasal corticosteroid sprays are highly effective and relatively safe for long term use. Medications such as Flonase and Nasacort are used to help decrease the number of cells in the nose that respond to our allergies. This reduces nasal congestion, sneezing, watery/itchy eyes etc. But, be aware that results are not immediate and can take days to weeks to obtain maximum benefit. 

Neti Pots

A neti pot is a container used to rinse the nasal cavity of debris, allergens and congested mucous thus relieving sinus pressure and allowing for a more natural alternative to sinus and allergy issues. Neti pots come in both a tea pot shape and, most commonly, a squeeze bottle. Combining water with the pre-packaged solution (mostly salt), creates a saline rinse. The saline acts as a natural cleansing agent that many swear by and use to keep infection and allergy symptoms at bay.

While they are safe to use, there are some very important details to know before starting with a neti pot. The water you use in a neti pot should be distilled or sterile. If you want to use tap water make sure you take the time to boil the water and then allow the water to cool to a lukewarm temperature.

When choosing a nasal irrigation device, the simpler the better. A nasal irrigation device with a lot of “nooks” is going to allow mold and bacteria to build up and this is clearly not desired. Choose a style that is easy to clean and sanitize. After each use it is critical to sanitize your neti pot with hot water + antibacterial soap and dry with a fresh paper towel. It’s also a good idea to replace your neti pot every couple months. If multiple family members use a neti pot each individual should have their own (like a toothbrush).

If you have additional questions about managing your child’s seasonal allergies, schedule a virtual visit today.

How to Navigate the Tylenol and Motrin Shortage

There are so many children who are sick right now and it has made finding Children’s Tylenol and Children’s Motrin increasingly difficult. Here are a few tips to help educate you on the different over-the-counter fever/pain reducing medications out there.  The most important thing to know is the ingredient and correct dosing for your child’s weight. 

Tip 1: Tylenol = Acetaminophen 

It is important to know that Tylenol is made from acetaminophen and therefore they are the same thing. Babies can have Tylenol starting at 2 months (unless otherwise discussed with your provider). Acetaminophen can be found in liquid, chewable tabs, suppositories, and pills. Children’s and Infant’s Tylenol are the same concentration and therefore dosed the same. Once you know your child’s correct weight-based dose all of the different forms of Tylenol can be given.

Tip 2: Motrin = Advil = Ibuprofen 

Motrin is not to be used for children under 6 months. It also comes in many different forms. Children’s Motrin and Infant Motrin are different concentrations, and you must use care with dosing. Motrin and Advil are both made with ibuprofen. Children should NEVER be given aspirin. 

Tip 3: Not Necessary

Fevers are HELPFUL and not harmful for most children. If you are unable to find these medications on the shelves, please do not panic. If your child is tolerating their fever (drinking and able to rest) it is ok to not give fever reducing medications. While these medications are great for pain and comfort, it is helpful to know you have other options than the ready-made Children’s Liquid. 

As a parent we are navigating unusual times with medication shortages and extra sick children. If you are curious about your child’s dosing and need a quick consult, we can book a telemedicine visit and help you feel confident when giving your child a different form of these medications.

Check our up coming videos for more details on ways to be resourceful. 

Why Choose Direct Primary Care?

What is Direct Primary Care?

Direct Primary Care is a model of care that provides access to personalized healthcare with a simple, affordable membership fee.  The main benefits of Direct Primary Care as an alternative to traditional primary care are that it provides improved access to care, cost savings, greater continuity of care, and improved communication with your provider.

Ten Reasons to Choose Direct Primary Care

1. Direct Primary Care is a model of care that is simple and easy to understand. 
2. As a member, you pay a monthly fee that cover an all-access pass to 24/7 phone calls, emails, text messages and virtual appointments. 
3. You will be given all the tools to have excellent care whenever and wherever. 
4. Even with insurance, your out-of-pocket costs add up so fast – a trip to urgent care, an ER visit, last minute camp forms.  Because we do not bill insurance companies, we can offer our services at a fixed cost. This can result in significant savings, especially if you have a high deductible.
5. SAVING GRACE TAKES IT A STEP FURTHER AND COMES TO YOU! 
6.  Our providers can refer you to a specialist and navigate any other parts of the healthcare system if need arises. 
7.  Saving Grace can take care of 85-95% of all your needs. This does not replace catastrophic event care.
8.  PERSONAL relationship with each patient without the added cost and hassle of insurance companies dictating your child’s care.
9.  There are tens of thousands of people all over the country doing this but not for kids and not in home. 
10.  We will keep you healthy, be here for you 24/7 with NO HIDDEN FEES and in the comfort and convenience of your own home.  ALL FOR LESS THAN the cost of a daily cup of coffee!

What You Need to Know About Influenza

What is Influenza?

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs.  It can cause mild to severe illness, and can sometimes lead to death.  The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.

Influenza Symptoms

Fever

Body Aches

Sore Throat

Runny Nose

Fatigue

Influenza Care Plan

Diagnosis: a simple nose swab is performed for testing and diagnosis of influenza.

Treatment:  Antiviral medications are available to help with symptoms of influenza as long as they are used within the correct time frame.  Unfortunately, these medications are not cures.

Flu symptoms may also be treated with anti-inflammatory medications for fever and aches and cough medicines if your child is coughing. It is also important to get lots of rest and plenty of fluids.

Tip from Grace:  Get your influenza vaccine to prevent illness and hospitalization!

No one wants to catch the flu but sometimes it is inevitable.  If you are in the Tulsa or OKC metro areas and someone in your home is sick, let us come help.  We are able to swab the family, make recommendations for the treatment of symptoms and send out medication for everyone if needed. 

Book your appointment today or give us a call at 405-590-0950.