Hemochromatosis is a condition where the body absorbs and stores too much iron, leading to iron overload that can damage organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas. Treating hemochromatosis focuses on reducing the excess iron in the body to prevent or limit organ damage.
The **primary and most effective treatment** for hemochromatosis is **therapeutic phlebotomy**. This involves regularly removing blood from the body, similar to donating blood. Since iron is carried in red blood cells, removing blood reduces iron levels. Initially, phlebotomy is done frequently—often weekly—removing about 450 to 500 milliliters of blood each session. This continues until iron levels, measured by serum ferritin, drop to a safer range, usually around 50 micrograms per liter. After that, maintenance phlebotomy is done less often to keep iron levels stable. This treatment is simple, safe, and highly effective at preventing further iron buildup and organ damage.
If a person cannot tolerate phlebotomy due to anemia, poor veins, or other health issues, **iron chelation therapy** is an alternative. Chelation uses medications that bind excess iron in the body and help remove it through urine or stool. These drugs are usually taken orally and are especially useful for patients who cannot undergo regular blood removal. Chelation therapy requires careful monitoring because it can have side effects and is generally reserved for those who cannot do phlebotomy.
Alongside these medical treatments, **diet and lifestyle changes** can support managing iron levels. While diet alone cannot treat hemochromatosis, avoiding iron supplements and limiting foods very high in iron, such as red meat and fortified cereals, can help prevent further iron accumulation. It is also advisable to avoid vitamin C supplements in excess because vitamin C increases iron absorption. Alcohol consumption should be minimized or avoided because it can worsen liver damage in people with iron overload.
Regular monitoring through blood tests is essential to track iron levels and organ function. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical because once organ damage occurs, it may be irreversible. In severe cases where the liver is extensively damaged, a liver transplant might be necessary, but this is rare if treatment starts early.
In summary, managing hemochromatosis involves:
– **Therapeutic phlebotomy** to remove excess iron by drawing blood regularly.
– **Iron chelation therapy** as an alternative when phlebotomy is not possible.
– **Dietary adjustments** to avoid excess iron intake and protect organ health.
– **Ongoing monitoring** of iron levels and organ function to guide treatment.
With these treatments, most people with hemochromatosis can live healthy lives and avoid serious complications.
