An inherited metabolic disorder characterized by iron accumulation in the tissues.
Symptoms of Disorder of iron metabolism
The following features are indicative of Disorder of iron metabolism:
extreme fatigue
weakness
pale skin
chest pain
fast heartbeat
shortness of breath
headache
dizziness
lightheadedness
cold hands
cold feet
inflammation of tongue
soreness of tongue
brittle nails
unusual cravings for the ice, starch or dirt
poor appetite
endocrine abnormalities
cardiomyopathy
It is possible that Disorder of iron metabolism shows no physical symptoms and still is present in a patient.
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Common Causes of Disorder of iron metabolism
The following are the most common causes of Disorder of iron metabolism:
hemojuvelin gene mutation
inability to absorb iron
hepcidin gene mutation
pregnancy
lack of iron in the diet
blood loss
Other Causes of Disorder of iron metabolism
The following are the less common causes of Disorder of iron metabolism:
genetic mutation in HFE gene
genetic mutation in TFR2 gene (Transferrin Receptor 2)
Risk Factors for Disorder of iron metabolism
The following factors may increase the likelihood of Disorder of iron metabolism:
affects women during menstruation
affects Caucasians of Northern European descent
Prevention of Disorder of iron metabolism
Yes, it may be possible to prevent Disorder of iron metabolism. Prevention may be possible by doing the following:
take adequate amount of iron
avoid drinking alcohol
choose iron rich foods in diet such as dark green leafy vegetables and dried fruits
Occurrence of Disorder of iron metabolism
Common Age Group
Disorder of iron metabolism can occur at any age.
Common Gender
Disorder of iron metabolism can occur in any gender.
Lab Tests and Procedures for Diagnosis of Disorder of iron metabolism
The following lab tests and procedures are used to detect Disorder of iron metabolism:
Physical examination: Helps to rule out the hemochromatosis
Blood test: To check the amount of iron that bound to protein and to check the amount of ferritin
Liver biopsy: To check the liver functioning
Complications of Disorder of iron metabolism if untreated
Yes, Disorder of iron metabolism causes complications if it is not treated. Below is the list of complications and problems that may arise if Disorder of iron metabolism is left untreated:
cirrhosis
scarring of liver tissue
diabetes
irregular heart rhythms
erectile dysfunction
weakening of the heart muscle
arthritis
rapid and irregular heartbeat
premature births
low birth weight baby
delayed growth
Procedures for Treatment of Disorder of iron metabolism
The following procedures are used to treat Disorder of iron metabolism:
Phlebotomy: To get rid of extra iron from the body
Self-care for Disorder of iron metabolism
The following self-care actions or lifestyle changes may help in the treatment or management of Disorder of iron metabolism:
Avoid iron rich food: To prevent overloading of iron
Avoid iron supplements: To prevent hemochromatosis
Avoid vitamin C supplement: To prevent iron absorption
Avoid drinking alcohol: To prevent liver cirrhosis
Last updated date
This page was last updated on 2/04/2019.
This page provides information for Disorder of iron metabolism.