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Disorder of iron metabolism

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.

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