Iron is an essential mineral that your body needs to stay healthy. It is a component of protein, and helps red blood cells deliver oxygen to the body. However, taking too much iron can result in iron overload. Excess iron can lead to numerous complications, serious health conditions, neurodegenerative diseases and even premature death.
Hemochromatosis
Iron overload, also known as hemochromatosis, occurs when the body absorbs too much iron. This iron may come from food, multivitamins or iron injections. The excess iron gradually builds up in tissues and organs. If the condition is left untreated, it will damage the organs. There are a variety of symptoms associated with hemochromatosis, which can differ depending upon gender and severity.
Early Warning Signs
Symptoms of excess iron in the body, especially early signs, mirror many other health conditions, making it difficult to diagnose. Early warning signs include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, abdominal pain, irritability, irregular menstruation, changes in skin color, joint pain and depression,. Symptoms vary considerably from person to person. While some people never have symptoms, others experience a range of problems, and not everyone with hemochromatosis will experience all of these signs.
Advanced Symptoms
Hemochromatosis will progress if left untreated. Symptoms may become more evident or worsen. The signs are similar to other blood disorders. As iron builds up in the body's organs, the following symptoms may occur: abnormal heart rhythm, hypopituitarism, shortness of breath, arthritis, loss of body hair, damage to the adrenal glands, cessation of menstrual periods or early menopause, osteoporosis, hypothyroidism and impotence in men. Tests at this point will show biochemical markers of hemochromatosis such as elevated liver enzymes and high blood sugar.
Complications
Over time, excess iron in the body can damage the organs and lead to a number of complications. Iron is stored in the liver, pancreas and heart, so these organs suffer complications of hemochromatosis. Liver disease, cirrhosis or permanent scarring of the liver, liver cancer, enlargement of the liver and liver failure are potentially life-threatening complications of excess iron. Excess iron in the heart affects its ability to circulate enough blood through the body. This results in congestive heart failure, palpitations, lightheartedness and chest pain. Hemochromatosis can also damage the pancreas, causing a loss of proper function, metabolic syndrome and diabetes.
Neurodegenerative Disorders
Iron overload, especially when left untreated over a period of time, affects the brain. Hemochromatosis is associated with the acceleration of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. The early onset of these neurological disorders is yet another complication of taking too much iron.
Member Comments