31/07/2025
🩸 Haemochromatosis – what you don’t know could harm you
I work with many clients who have been diagnosed with haemochromatosis or discovered they’re carriers of the gene. What’s important to understand is that being a “carrier” doesn’t mean you’re in the clear.
Even if you’re told you only have one copy of the mutation, you can still absorb too much iron and over time, this excess iron can silently damage organs like the liver, heart and pancreas if not properly monitored.
For women, iron levels often remain manageable until menopause, thanks to regular blood loss through menstruation. But once periods stop, iron can begin to accumulate rapidly, which is why postmenopausal women should be especially vigilant.
Regular blood tests, awareness of your symptoms, and dietary considerations are key to managing this genetic trait.
📖 This article from The Irish Times sheds light on why early diagnosis and awareness matter:
‘I felt so much relief, after four years of thinking I was lazy ... I finally had an answer – and more importantly, a treatable one’
Read the story via the link in our comments
