Hemochromatosis and Potassium Levels

[Bhaileharris]

I have been diagnosed with herediatary hemochromatosis (iron overload) disease; my last comprehensive blood workup indicates a low level of potassium. The low levels of potassium could explain the blood pressure elevations and leg cramps. How does high iron levels affect potassium uptake/levels? Any help much appreciated!

[LondonGirlUK]

Hi, I too have lo potassium and high iron levels. I’m having problems finding any expert who recognised these problems are linked. I would be grateful for any one else with these problems to message me so I might be able to make some sense of what’s wrong with me. I also have high blood pressure and become very ill if I take any hypertension drugs.
Thank you for your fascinating posts.
Tina

[Kimhat00]

I have low potassium and high iron levels too, I have high blood pressure but I take medications for it so its in control, Im in the process of being tested for hemochromatosis , I would greatly appreciate any info. you have on the problems

[LondonGirlUK]

G

[Waterloogeek]

I have the same symptoms including as well a spike in high blood pressure. Just started taking potassium for the leg cramps and I get regular phlebotomies for my hemo... Good luck!

[02051932]

Hi,

I don't have haemachromatosis but I do have iron overload (very high) and I've never had low potassium.  I'm not saying it isn't related just saying I don't have a potassium problem.

Hope you're eating some bananas.  Good luck.

[patient915]

Welcome to the gastroenterology community!  I don't know about how high iron affects potassium.  However, if you have already been diagnosed with hemochromatosis, you shouldn't have high iron anymore because you should have blood removed until it is at normal levels.