Hemochromatosis - A guide to iron overload symptoms

Feeling unusually tired or achy? It might be more than just stress. Understanding hemochromatosis, or iron overload, is crucial for preventing long-term organ damage. Don't let a treatable genetic condition silently affect your health.

What are the main causes of Hemochromatosis?

• What is hemochromatosis? It's a disorder where the body absorbs too much iron from food, leading to a dangerous buildup in organs.
• The most common form is hereditary hemochromatosis, caused by a genetic mutation passed down through families that affects iron regulation.
• This genetic defect leads to excessive iron saturation in the blood, causing the body to store the excess in the liver, heart, and pancreas.

Key symptoms of Hemochromatosis to watch for

• Early hemochromatosis symptoms are often vague and can include joint pain, chronic fatigue, abdominal pain, and unexplained weakness.
• As iron overload progresses, more specific signs may appear, such as a bronze or grey skin tone, loss of libido, and heart problems.
• Diagnosis often involves blood tests to check for high ferritin levels (stored iron) and genetic testing to confirm the underlying mutation.

How is Hemochromatosis treated and managed?

• The primary hemochromatosis treatment is therapeutic phlebotomy, which involves regularly removing blood to reduce the body's iron levels.
• This process is similar to donating blood and is highly effective at preventing organ damage by lowering iron stores to a safe range.
• Dietary changes, such as avoiding iron supplements and limiting vitamin C with meals, can also help manage the body's iron absorption.

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Image of the disease Hemochromatosis - Phlebotomy Treatment

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While hereditary hemochromatosis is a lifelong condition, it is highly manageable with early diagnosis and consistent treatment. If you have symptoms or a family history, talk to your doctor about getting tested.

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