Understanding and Treating Iron Overload (Hemochromatosis)

Iron overload, medically known as hemochromatosis, is an inherited condition in which your body contains too much iron. According to the Mayo Clinic, your body is unable to break down the iron, so it is stored in such organs as your heart, liver and pancreas. A few symptoms of iron overload include stomach pains, fatigue, high blood sugar levels and arthritis. If you suffer from iron overload, there are specific ways to treat it.

Instructions

• 1

  Go to your doctor to schedule phlebotomy (blood removal) treatments. According to the Mayo Clinic, you will initially have a pint of blood removed from your body one to two times each week. This is much like giving blood except you are removing blood to decrease the iron levels in your body.

• 2

  Have your blood drawn six times a year when your iron levels have consistently normalized. This is a therapeutic measure to prevent a further increase in your iron levels.

• 3

  Avoid iron supplements, alcohol and vitamin C. Iron supplements can increase your iron levels. The Mayo Clinic states that the combination of alcohol and iron can lead to liver damage. Vitamin C can increase iron absorption in your body.

• 4

  Avoid processed foods like 100 percent iron breakfast cereals, states Medline Plus, which can contribute to your iron overload.