Excess iron, also known as iron overload, can potentially cause life-threatening manifestations if left untreated. The Merck Manual states that chronic iron therapy, numerous blood transfusions, chronic alcoholism, overdose of iron supplements and hematochromatosis (a condition in which your body absorbs too much iron from your food) all cause your body to retain excess iron. Become a proponent for your health and learn about excess iron's side effects.
Liver Problems
According to the Mayo Clinic, excess iron can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. Normally, your liver stores iron. With excess iron, irreversible liver scarring can occur. This is a condition called cirrhosis. Liver cancer may also result especially when you suffer from hereditary hemochromatosis and cirrhosis.
Heart Problems
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute states that excess iron can lead to an arrhythmia or heart failure. Arrhythmias refer to irregular heartbeats that result as iron interferes with your heart's electrical conductivity system. Heart failure (a condition in which your heart cannot effectively pump blood to the rest of your body) occurs because excess iron interferes with your heart's blood circulation, states the Mayo Clinic. Heart failure symptoms include trouble breathing and leg swelling.
Poisoning
According to the Merck Manual, excess iron can lead to symptoms of iron poisoning. You may experience nausea and vomiting, diarrhea and intestinal damage. Treat Iron poisoning promptly as this is a medical emergency.
Other Effects
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute states that iron can accumulate in your joints and result in joint pain or damage. It may change your skin's appearance so it appears bronze or gray. In some instances, excess iron can affect your reproductive system and lead to decreased libido (sex drive) in men, early menopause and impotence. Diabetes (disease of elevated blood sugars) and trouble with your pituitary (gland in your brain responsible for storing and releasing hormones), adrenal (gland on top of your kidneys that produce stress hormones) and thyroid gland (located near your neck and responsible for making hormones that control your metabolism) are other effects of excess iron.
Member Comments