Diseases
iron overload
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Haemochromatosis is an inherited condition where iron levels in the body slowly build up over many years. This build-up of iron, known as iron overload, can cause unpleasant symptoms. If it is not treated, this can damage parts of the body such as the liver, joints, pancreas and heart.
Symptoms
- joint pain.
- weakness.
- abdominal pain.
- loss of sex drive.
- impotence
Causes
- most often caused by a change in a gene. this gene controls the amount of iron your body absorbs from food.
Risk factors
- family history.
- having two copies of an altered hfe gene
- men are more likely than women to develop this disease.
Diagnosis
- blood tests
- mri
- liver function tests. these tests can help identify liver damage.
- testing for gene changes.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is iron overload?
Haemochromatosis is an inherited condition where iron levels in the body slowly build up over many years. This build-up of iron, known as iron overload, can cause unpleasant symptoms. If it is not treated, this can damage parts of the body such as the liver, joints, pancreas and heart.
What are the symptoms of iron overload?
joint pain., weakness., abdominal pain., loss of sex drive., impotence
What causes iron overload?
most often caused by a change in a gene. this gene controls the amount of iron your body absorbs from food.
Which medicines are used for iron overload?
deferasirox, deferiprone, deferoxamine
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