What Cuses Excess Iron In Blood?

Brief Answer: Manageable, opinion of a hematologist Detailed Answer: Hi and thanks for the query, Excess iron in the body is generally called hemochromatosis. Most of the time, it is a hereditary disease, the results from failure of the body to appropriate dispose of its iron, leading to its accumulation. When this iron deposits stay in specific organs of the body, they become poisonous and start producing toxic effects and specific diseases. Excess destruction of red blood cells can lead to accumulation of iron. This is seen in diseases like sickle cell anemia. Some toxic drugs can lead to excessive destruction of red blood cells, leading to excessive iron in the body. These are however uncommon causes of the excess iron in the body compared to hereditary hemochromatosis. Diabetes, heart disease, skin disease, kidney disease arise from this condition. In some persons with excessive amounts of red cells, blood donations could help.When an appropriate diagnosis is made, there a re two main treatment options. The first is phlebotomy. This involves puncturing of the veins to extract blood. It is important to note that iron is mainly found in blood (red blood cells). The second is through using specific drugs. This is a process called chelation, where the drugs combine with the free iron and inactivates it. Some these drugs include Deferoxamine and Deferasirox. Surgery at times may be offered in the case where the liver, heart or joints are seriously touched. I strongly suggestion you seek the opinion of a hematologist. Kind regards and feel free asking follow up questions in case of need. Dr Bain

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