Chronic Iron Overload
The Danger of Chronic Iron Overload
Chronic iron overload is a highly dangerous medical condition that can lead to a range of serious health complications, including liver cirrhosis and even death. It occurs when there is an accumulation of iron in the body, typically due to a hereditary disorder known as hemochromatosis. In order for individuals to understand why chronic iron overload is so serious, it is important to first gain an understanding of what the disorder is and how it develops.
What is Hemochromatosis?
Hemochromatosis is one of the most common hereditary disorders. It is caused by genetic mutations which prevent the body from metabolizing iron properly. This causes the body to absorb more iron than it needs, resulting in an iron overload. If left untreated, this build up of iron can lead to long-term damage to organs and tissue.
Symptoms of Chronic Iron Overload
The symptoms of chronic iron overload vary from person to person. The most common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness and/or dizziness
- Decreased sex drive
- Weight changes
- Irregular heartbeats or palpitations
- Liver damage
- Skin discoloration
Complications of Chronic Iron Overload
If not treated promptly, chronic iron overload can lead to a range of serious health complications, such as:
- Liver cirrhosis
- Heart failure
- Liver cancer
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Lymphoma
- Neuropathy
- Impotence
It is therefore essential that individuals with a suspected case of chronic iron overload seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Treatment for Chronic Iron Overload
The treatment for chronic iron overload involves removing excess iron from the body. This is usually done through regular blood donations, or the use of chelation therapy. In some cases, medications may also be used to reduce the absorption of iron from food.
It is important to note that there is no cure for chronic iron overload, and preventive measures must be taken to avoid complications. This includes maintaining a diet low in iron, avoiding alcohol consumption and avoiding iron supplements.