Overview

Hemochromatosis is the buildup of too much iron in the body. The iron usually collects in the liver first. It may also collect in the blood, heart, pancreas, and other tissues and organs.

Hemochromatosis is a disease that can be passed from a parent to a child (inherited). Usually, people need an abnormal gene from each parent to get the disease. You and your family members can get a genetic test to see if the gene is present. This is important, because early treatment that removes the extra iron from your body can protect your health.

Sometimes hemochromatosis isn't inherited but is caused by something else (secondary hemochromatosis). Having too much iron can be caused by blood transfusions, liver disease, and some blood disorders, like thalassemia.

Hemochromatosis may cause belly pain, weakness, tiredness, and weight loss. It also can scar the liver, cause joint pain, and darken the skin. In late stages, it can damage the heart and joints, and can cause diabetes. Symptoms of hemochromatosis often do not appear until a person is 40 to 60 years old.

Treatment removes the excess iron from the body before it causes problems. This can be done by taking blood out of your veins every week at first. Later, most people have this done every 2 or 3 months. Once in a while, doctors prescribe medicine that removes iron from the body.

If you have hemochromatosis, your family members should tell their doctors. They will have to watch for the condition as well. Early treatment can help prevent problems later.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Be careful about the natural health products that you take. You should avoid natural health products that have iron and vitamin C. Vitamin C supplements cause your body to absorb more iron from food. But it is okay to eat foods that have vitamin C (such as oranges).
• Ask your doctor if you need to make any changes in your diet. If you need to reduce the amount of iron in your diet, eat less red meats and organ meats, which contain high amounts of iron. Avoid iron-fortified food, such as some breads and cereals.
• Drink tea and coffee. These drinks can cause your body to absorb less iron from the food you eat. Drinking these beverages does not replace usual treatment.
• Do not use iron cookware. Food cooked in ironware can absorb some of the iron.
• Get hepatitis A and hepatitis B shots. These vaccines can protect your liver.
• Limit or do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can cause more damage to your liver.
• Be careful when you eat seafood. You may be more likely to get sick if you eat undercooked seafood.