Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What causes haemochromatosis?

Haemochromatosis is caused by specific mutations of the HFE gene, known as C282Y and/or H63D. it is a recessive, hereditary condition which means that for you to develop the disorder both your mother and father must carry, and pass on, a mutated form of the HFE gene.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is haemochromatosis?

Haemochromatosis is a hereditary condition that causes your body to absorb too much iron from your diet.

What are the symptoms of haemochromatosis?

Signs and symptoms of haemochromatosis vary from person to person and can include: fatigue; joint pain (knuckles, knees and ankles); weakness; irritability; stomach pain; low libido, and; discoloured skin (bronze or leaden grey).

Who develops haemochromatosis?

Risk factors for haemochromatosis include: Family history (particularly a parent or sibling with haemochromatosis), and; Being of Northern European origin.

How is haemochromatosis diagnosed?

Haemochromatosis can be diagnosed from a blood test which specifically measures the following: the transferrin saturation (the amount of iron attached to transferrin, a blood protein) and serum ferritin (which indicates overall iron levels in the body). …

How is haemochromatosis treated?

Haemochromatosis is treated by removing the excess iron from your body in a process called venesection, which involves removal of blood from the body, similar to donating blood. Up to 500mL can be taken at regular intervals (up to twice a week) to bring the …

Can haemochromatosis be cured?

No, haemochromatosis is a genetic condition and cannot be cured. It can be successfully managed by venesection (blood removal) to reduce the level of iron in your body or chelation therapies, which allow excess iron to be excreted through the urine.

Will haemochromatosis clear on its own?

Haemochromatosis will actually get worse if left untreated. This is because excess iron accumulates in certain organs including the heart, liver, pancreas and joints, and over time can cause damage.

What can be done at home to treat haemochromatosis?

There are certain lifestyle measures that you can follow to help manage haemochromatosis. These include: Not taking iron supplements; Avoiding excess alcohol intake, which can worsen liver damage; Cautious use of certain medications, …

Is haemochromatosis serious?

Haemochromatosis is a serious condition. If left untreated, serious complications can result from the associated organ damage, including type 2 diabetes, arthritis, congestive heart failure and liver failure.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body. It can cause a distinct rash on the face, tiredness and swollen lymph glands. With lifestyle changes and medications, most symptoms can be managed.…
Diseases & conditions

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the lining of joints, resulting in swelling, pain, stiffness and, over time, gradual joint damage. Fortunately, early treatment and appropriate physical activity can improve quality of life.…
Diseases & conditions

Wilson's disease

Wilson’s disease is a genetic disorder than results in the abnormal accumulation of copper in the body, which, if left untreated, can be fatal. Treatment is lifelong but effective, involving a low-copper diet as well as steps to reduce accumulated copper in the body.…
Diseases & conditions

Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis occurs in people with psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that can affect the skin, nails and joints. In psoriatic arthritis, one or more joints become stiff, swollen and painful. Early treatment makes living with the condition much easier.…
Diseases & conditions

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a common condition that occurs when the lungs become inflamed. It causes coughing and difficult breathing. Acute bronchitis refers to the short-term type, and may occur in the aftermath of cold or flu. While the cough may be severe, it typically lasts for only a few weeks.…
Diseases & conditions

Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs. This leads to breathing difficulties, tiredness, lung infections and a shortened life expectancy. While treatment for CF continues to improve, healthy lifestyle choices can help maintain a good quality of life.…

About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 06 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 14 May 2019
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Votes: 370 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Lupus

×

Content goes in here.