Treatment
What is the treatment?
Currently, the treatment consists of the removal of blood by venesection*
(sometimes called phlebotomy) at regular intervals until the iron
levels in the blood return to within the normal range.
This can take up to 18 months with weekly or sometimes twice weekly venesections, depending on the original iron status of the patient.
Once normal levels of iron are re-established, venesections are used
less frequently (3 or 4 times a year) to maintain those levels throughout
the patient's lifetime.
What level should treatment begin?
At any level above normal - the iron level should be normalised as quickly as possible. Permanent damage, such as cirrhosis, occurs with iron overload and is irreversible.
Diet
Currently, there is no specific diet for haemochromatosis but it is accepted that people with this disorder do not enhance iron uptake out of their diet.
The Do's & Dont's
Do not drink alcohol with meals. (If fibrosis or cirrhosis present avoid alcohol altogether)
Eat less red meat, two or three meat meals per week is ok!
Eat more fish, chicken and vegetarian meals.
Do not take supplements of iron or Vitamin C.
It is suggested that you eat a varied diet.
If you eat 3 meals a day and don't skip meals then supplementation of anything should not be necessary.
If you feel you have a deficiency have your doctor check it.
If you take supplements at all discuss this with your doctor as the supplements could conflict with any medication that you are currently taking.
There are many magic pills and potions and quick cure alls on the market today, personally, I have found them to be a waste of money, and there is no magic potion or quick fix to make you feel better.
Common sense applies, do adequate exercise, rest, and eat a varied diet.
It appears that as you get older it takes more work and effort to keep yourself fit.
(Actually it is hard work to maintain this standard).
*Similar to blood donation where a needle is inserted into the arm
of the patient and up to 500 mls of blood is removed.