HemochromatosisHemochromatosis is a genetic disorder (inherited) in which the gut absorbs too much iron. Excess iron is deposited in tissues and organs, where they can become toxic and cause damage.

Hemochromatosis occurs most commonly in people of northern European descent, especially the Scots, Irish or English and affects up to one in 250 people in the United States. Hemochromatosis is most commonly diagnosed in people between 40 and 60. In women, is usually diagnosed after menopause.

Symptoms

Early symptoms of hemochromatosis vary from person to person and are symptoms that can occur in other conditions, these include:

- weakness
- weight loss
- joint pain
- abdominal pain
- palpitations
- shortness of breath
- irritability
- impotence
- depression
- corporeality hair loss

As the condition progresses, the skin may acquire a bronze or yellowish tone. The disease can lead to organ failure, especially liver failure (cirrhosis), which can cause confusion, hemorrhage (bleeding), jaundice (yellowing) accumulation of fluid in the legs and abdomen, bloody stool or black. Iron deposits in the heart can cause heart failure or irregular heart rhythm. If the pancreas is affected may also have diabetes.

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