There is a lot of awareness around low levels of iron in the body, but did you know it could be equally harmful when you have high levels of iron in your system?
Hemochromatosis is a condition that causes the body to absorb too much iron from the ingestion of food and supplements. Iron overload can cause a number of health problems, some of which are:
- Arrhythmia: Arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm. Having a normal heart rhythm matters because your heart supplies your whole body with nutrients and oxygen. Too much iron in the heart can cause arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rhythms, by interfering with the heart’s electrical function.
- Liver cancer: Liver cancer is a life-threatening illness and one of the fastest growing cancers in the United States. The liver stores most of the body’s excess iron and excess iron can cause liver cancer by damaging cells and DNA through the production of harmful free radicals.
- Arthritis: Arthritis is extremely common, especially among seniors aged 50 above it causes joint pain, stiffness and inflammation. When excess iron is deposited in the cartilage and synovial tissues of the joints, it can damage them and lead to joint symptoms known as hemochromatotic arthritis
- Reproductive problem: Too much iron in the body can cause reproductive problems such as erectile dysfunction in men and early menopause in women.
So before you pick up that bottle of supplements, even if they can be bought over the counter, make sure your doctor is aware and has given you approval to use them. Self diagnosis and medication may be harmful to your well-being.
At Vitalis Healthcare, your health is our priority. Do you have need for assistance with using your medication at home such as medication reminder or administration? Our team of registered nurses, certified nursing aides and certified medication technician are ready to the best home care possible, especially in the area of medication administration.
If you or your loved one needs home caregiving services, book a free consultation with us and let us help you get the right service for your needs.
Phone Number: 240.716.6874
Email: info@vitalishealthcare.com
Location: We provide our services in every county in the State of Maryland, United States of America.
Office Address: 8757 Georgia Avenue Suite 440 Silver Spring, MD 20910.