1. Get a Phlebotomy
Phlebotomies are the primary way in which those with hemochromatosis can manage excess iron in the blood. A phlebotomy is a procedure in which blood with excess iron is removed from your body and replaced with blood that has normal levels of iron. This procedure is done numerous times before the iron levels return to normal. For some patients, at the beginning of treatment it may take 30 or more phlebotomies to show marked results. Those with hemochromatosis will also likely be ordered to receive a phlebotomy once, twice or even more times each week at the start of treatment. Over time, the frequency of phlebotomy treatment decreases. Doctors eventually like to place patients on a schedule of only one phlebotomy every two or three months.
2. Take Medication
Deferoxamine is a medication typically used to help those with hemochromatosis manage the excess iron in their blood. Deferoxamine works by bonding with iron molecules in your blood and preventing them from building up and being stored in your organs and tissue. This bonded iron is then passed from the body through urine. Feferasirox is another medication used in this capacity. Both are commonly only used, however, for those who are not able to receive a phlebotomy because of preexisting blood conditions like hemophilia.
3. Minor Lifestyle Changes
Little can be done beyond medical treatment to manage hemochromatosis, but there are a few steps available. Avoiding vitamin C supplements is considered important, as vitamin C helps your body absorb iron into your organs. You can have as much vitamin C as you would get from natural sources, but taking a vitamin supplement that includes vitamin C would cause far more iron to be present. Avoiding iron-rich foods like red meat, liver, enriched cereal, shellfish, canned beans and asparagus can also help to a small degree.
