Hemochromatosis
OVERVIEW
Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that affects the way your body processes iron. Iron is an important mineral in our bodies and helps transport oxygen in the blood and supports normal body functions. However, in people with hemochromatosis, the body absorbs too much iron from the food they eat and the iron builds up in the body. This can cause serious health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, joint pain, and diabetes.
The excess iron can deposit in various organs, such as the liver, heart, and pancreas, leading to damage over time. This can cause the affected organs to malfunction, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, and weakness. If left untreated, hemochromatosis can lead to serious health problems, including liver cirrhosis, heart disease, and diabetes.
There are two main types of hemochromatosis: primary hemochromatosis and secondary hemochromatosis. Primary hemochromatosis is a genetic condition that is passed down from one or both parents. Secondary hemochromatosis is caused by other health problems, such as liver disease, alcoholism, or transfusions.
Diagnosis of hemochromatosis usually involves a series of tests to measure iron levels in the blood and to check for organ damage. If a person is diagnosed with hemochromatosis, treatment usually involves removing some of the iron from the body, either through regular blood donations or other methods. This can help to prevent further damage to the organs and reduce symptoms.
In conclusion, hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that causes the body to absorb too much iron, leading to serious health problems. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and improve quality of life for those with hemochromatosis.
WHAT CAN I DO AT HOME TO PREVENT MORE LIVER INJURY?
WHAT TREATMENTS SHOULD I DISCUSS WITH MY DOCTOR?
At each clinic visit you should consider discussing the following items with your healthcare provider:
Your alcohol intake and strategies to quit or minimize alcohol use to prevent additional liver damage.
Your weight and strategies to achieve and maintain a healthy weight to prevent additional liver damage.
Vaccinations. In general, individuals with liver disease should receive vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, TDAP, yearly influenza vaccination, and be up to date with COVID vaccinations. Individuals with cirrhosis should also receive pneumonia vaccinations. A complete list of recommended vaccinations can be obtained from the CDC website on Vaccinations for those with liver disease. Any of these infections can cause your liver to become much sicker if you are not appropriately protected from vaccination.
If you have cirrhosis. If so, you will need to discuss things like regular endoscopies (to screen for varices), regular labs and imaging (to monitor liver function and screen for cancer), and management of liver complications. If you have cirrhosis, please also visit the patient information page on cirrhosis.
WHAT RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE TO HELP ME?
