Overview
Haemochromatosis is a condition where the body absorbs too much iron, leading to iron overload in organs such as the liver, heart, and pancreas. Symptoms may include fatigue, joint pain, and skin discolouration. Diagnosis involves blood tests to analyse iron levels, and treatment includes venesection (blood removal) or chelation therapy to manage iron overload.
What Is Haemochromatosis?
Haemochromatosis occurs when the body absorbs excess iron from food, causing high iron levels that accumulate in organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas.
- Primary (Hereditary Haemochromatosis): Caused by genetic mutations leading to lifelong iron overload.
- Secondary Haemochromatosis: Results from other conditions like anaemia, liver disease, or repeated blood transfusions, causing similar iron overload.
What Are The Symptoms of Haemochromatosis?
Common symptoms of haemochromatosis include:
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in skin tone, often appearing as a bronze or greyish tint.
If left untreated, complications like diabetes, heart disease, or cirrhosis may develop. Early detection through a haemochromatosis test is important for preventing long-term damage.
What Causes Haemochromatosis?
There are two types of haemochromatosis:
Hereditary haemochromatosis
Caused by mutations in the HFE gene, leading to excessive iron absorption. The likelihood of inheriting the condition depends on whether one or both parents carry the gene or have the disorder.
Secondary haemochromatosis
This form develops from external factors such as repeated blood transfusions, certain types of anaemia, or liver diseases, which cause iron to build up in the body.
How is Haemochromatosis Diagnosed?
Haemochromatosis is typically diagnosed through blood tests, such as measuring ferritin levels and transferrin saturation, to determine iron levels. If these levels are high, genetic testing may be recommended to check for hereditary haemochromatosis. In some cases, a liver biopsy or MRI may be needed to assess organ damage from iron overload.
What Treatments Are There For Haemochromatosis?
The primary treatment for haemochromatosis is venesection (therapeutic phlebotomy), which involves regularly removing blood to reduce iron levels. By removing blood, the body uses stored iron to produce new blood cells, gradually lowering the excess iron.
For those who cannot undergo phlebotomy, chelation therapy may be used to remove excess iron through medication. Treatment frequency will depend on iron levels and how well your body absorbs iron.
Why Go Private with Mid Ulster Clinic For Haemochromatosis Treatment?
Choosing private care for haemochromatosis at Mid Ulster Clinic means you get:
- Faster access to specialists, reducing delays in diagnosis and treatment.
- Personalised care with tailored treatment plans to suit your specific condition.
- Comprehensive management, including regular monitoring and adjustments to your treatment.
- Focused patient care, providing a comfortable and supportive experience throughout your treatment journey.
To book your haemochromatosis treatment, select the ‘Book an Appointment’ button or contact us for more information
- Medically Reviewed