Hemochromatosis

Hemochromatosis, also called iron overload, is a condition in which your body stores too much iron.

What is iron, and why do I need it?

Iron is a mineral found in certain foods. Your body needs iron to:

• Help hemoglobin in blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body.
• Make red blood cells.
• Produce certain hormones.

Normally, your intestines absorb just the right amount of iron from the food you eat. But with hemochromatosis, the body absorbs extra iron and stores it in your organs, especially your heart, liver and pancreas.

Why is too much iron dangerous?

Too much iron can be toxic.

In the heart, it can cause:

• Arrythmia (irregular heartbeat).
• Heart failure.

Too much iron in the liver can lead to:

• Cirrhosis (scarring).
• Enlarged liver.
• Liver cancer.
• Liver failure.

In addition, iron overload can cause:

• Arthritis (joint damage).
• Diabetes.
• Problems with the spleen, adrenal glands, pituitary gland, gallbladder or thyroid.
• Problems with the reproductive system, such as erectile dysfunction in men and early menopause in women.
• Skin that may look noticeably more gray or bronze than usual.

If the condition isn’t treated, it can lead to death.

How common is hemochromatosis?

The condition is fairly common, affecting more than a million Americans.