What is Haemochromatosis?
Haemochromatosis is a hereditary condition, in which excessive amounts of iron are absorbed from the diet. This iron is deposited in various organs, mainly in
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Iron builds up slowly so symptoms may not appear until age 30 or 40. These symptoms include:
The early biochemical signs of haemochromatosis tend to be:
Most of these symptoms can be found in other disorders but when arthritis affects the first two finger joints, it is highly suggestive of haemochromatosis.
Most individuals with haemochromatosis will develop at least one or two of the above symptoms, although possibly in a mild form.
When undetected and untreated, iron overload can result in severe organ damage and premature death.
Haemochromatosis is a hereditary condition, in which excessive amounts of iron are absorbed from the diet. This iron is deposited in various organs, mainly in
Haemochromatosis International Haemochromatosis International is a global alliance of haemochromatosis associations, established to advance the health of people with haemochromatosis across Europe, North America,
Begin treatment as soon as possible; the earlier your treatment (the most effective treatment is by venesection) begins the better your chances of staying healthy.
Iron builds up slowly so symptoms may not appear until age 30 or 40. These symptoms include: The early biochemical signs of haemochromatosis tend to
Diagnosis A simple blood test to check your iron status can confirm or rule out iron overload. If both the serum ferritin (SF) and the
Consider testing for haemochromatosis (HH) in: Relatives who are at risk should be tested. This is absolutely essential in the case of brothers and sisters
If you or someone you know has Haemochromatosis, we are always ready to help. Use our helpline, send us an email or join us using the links below.
