Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis is a condition where the body absorbs too much iron from food. This extra iron is stored in organs, especially the liver, heart and pancreas. When levels of iron build up too high, it can lead to life-threatening conditions such as liver disease, heart issues and diabetes.
Sometimes this condition is called 'iron overload'.
While there are a few types of hemochromatosis, the most common type is genetic. Most people who have these genes do not develop serious health issues. If symptoms do begin, they usually start to appear in midlife.
Symptoms can often be mistaken for other common ailments as they can include:
- Joint pain
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Diabetes
- Impotence
- Low libido
- Heart failure
- Liver failure
- Changes in skin color (to bronze or gray)
Treatment will be focused on regularly lowering iron from the blood. This is done through a procedure known as a phlebotomy.
Additional facts
- Men have a higher risk than women
- More common in people of Northern European descent
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- Limit iron & vitamin C supplements and foods considered to be iron-rich or fortified