Iron is an essential mineral that the body needs for growth and development. It helps produce hormones and makes hemoglobin, which is a vital protein our red blood cells need to carry oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. But is it possible to have too much iron in your body?
As it turns out, the answer is yes, and this condition is known as hemochromatosis. Leaving hemochromatosis untreated can cause serious damage to the body, which is why early intervention is so important. To better understand this disorder, let’s take a look at the common symptoms and causes of hemochromatosis, as well as how to diagnose and treat it.
What Is Hemochromatosis?
In short, hemochromatosis is a disorder where too much iron builds up in your body. There are two types of hemochromatosis: primary and secondary, which we’ll get into more detail later.
Hemochromatosis can be a serious health problem because your body can’t eliminate excess iron. Iron can build up in important organs, such as the liver, heart, pancreas, pituitary gland, skin, and even in your joints. If this happens, it can cause organ and tissue damage.