About Hemochromatosis type 2

What is Hemochromatosis type 2?

Hemochromatosis type 2 is a rare inherited disorder that causes the body to absorb and store too much iron. It is caused by mutations in the HFE gene, which is responsible for regulating iron absorption in the body. Symptoms of hemochromatosis type 2 include fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, and skin discoloration. Treatment typically involves regular blood draws to remove excess iron from the body.

What are the symptoms of Hemochromatosis type 2?

Symptoms of Hemochromatosis type 2 can vary from person to person, but may include:

-Fatigue

-Joint pain

-Abdominal pain

-Loss of sex drive

-Liver problems

-Diabetes

-Heart problems

-Skin discoloration

-Weight loss

-Weakness

-Impotence

-Depression

What are the causes of Hemochromatosis type 2?

Hemochromatosis type 2 is caused by mutations in the HFE gene. These mutations can be inherited from a parent or can occur spontaneously.

What are the treatments for Hemochromatosis type 2?

1. Phlebotomy: This is the most common treatment for hemochromatosis type 2. Phlebotomy is a procedure in which blood is removed from the body in order to reduce the amount of iron in the body.

2. Iron chelation therapy: This is a treatment that uses medications to remove excess iron from the body.

3. Diet modification: Eating a diet low in iron can help reduce the amount of iron in the body.

4. Vitamin C supplementation: Vitamin C helps the body absorb less iron from food.

5. Avoiding alcohol: Alcohol can increase the amount of iron absorbed from food.

6. Avoiding iron supplements: Iron supplements should be avoided as they can increase the amount of iron in the body.

What are the risk factors for Hemochromatosis type 2?

1. Family history of hemochromatosis
2. Being of Northern European descent
3. Having two copies of the HFE gene mutation
4. Having a history of liver disease
5. Having a history of diabetes
6. Having a history of alcohol abuse
7. Being a male over the age of 40

Is there a cure/medications for Hemochromatosis type 2?

Yes, there are treatments available for Hemochromatosis type 2. The main treatment is phlebotomy, which is a procedure that removes excess iron from the body. Other treatments include medications such as deferoxamine, deferiprone, and deferasirox, which help to reduce iron levels in the body. Additionally, dietary changes such as avoiding iron-rich foods and taking iron-binding medications can help to reduce iron levels.