Hemochromatosis (iron overload)

Overview

Extra iron builds up in organs over years, and symptoms often start after age 40.

Removing blood regularly brings iron down safely.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Tiredness and joint pain

Less common

• Bronze skin
• Liver problems
• Diabetes

When to get medical care

Causes

Genes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Northern European ancestry
• People of Northern European descent: Most common

Possible complications

• Cirrhosis

Diagnosis

Blood tests.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Ferritin, iron saturation:
• Gene test:

Treatment

Lower iron.

Self-care

• Avoid iron and vitamin C supplements
• Limit alcohol
• Don't eat raw shellfish

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a hematologist (blood doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Men: Symptoms often start earlier than in women.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Very treatable.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing my symptoms?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Hemochromatosis (iron overload)