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Genetics (Expert Forum)
scared
Answered by
Lisa Kessler, MS, CGC - Hereditary Disorders, hemochromatosis, Patient Outreach
DNA Direct
This forum is for questions and support regarding Genetics.
This forum is for questions and support regarding a person’s predisposition to a variety of medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Blood-clotting Disorders, Breast Cancer, Cystic Fibrosis, Diabetes, Marfan Syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, etc.
scared
by clinque18, Sep 19, 2007 11:51AM
Hi, I am a 22 year old female w/ symptoms such as being very tired and shortness of breath in the past few months. I had a baby one year ago and never had problems w/ my iron. It was always good trhough out my pregnancy. When i went to the dr. the other day she told me that my Iron was high and she thinks i have hemochromatosis. She did another Iron test and is suppose to get back w/ me tomorrow. Since she has told me this i have been worrying my self to death. I already have BAD anxiety problems to which i told her about and I have been drinking more than i should be. Could that contribute to the High iron ?? Or w/ the Hemochromatosis?? She put me on some anti anxiety meds so I will not have to drink to medicate myself. Before i would say i was drinking anywhere from 3-8 beers a night to avoid having a anxiety attack. I am just worried I have now cause myself to get hemochromatiosis from drinking to much ...she told me that it wasn't from drinking but she never asked me how much i was really drinking. Do you think it is genetic or is it from my drinking?
Doctor's Answer
by Lisa Kessler, MS, CGC, Sep 21, 2007 05:22PM
, Sep 21, 2007 05:22PM
You have a lot happening right now. A one year old child, anxiety issues, alcohol concerns, and now a possible diagnosis of hemochromatosis. I hope this information can help you cope with the issues you are facing.
Hemochromatosis is caused by increased iron absorption in the intestines, and accumulation of excess iron in the liver and other organs. Hemochromatosis can be acquired or inherited. The acquired form can occur from a high intake of iron, or a liver disease where the liver is no longer able to control the intake of iron. Excess alcohol use that damages the liver and causes cirrhosis can be a contributing factor.
Inherited hemochromatosis is caused by a problem in the gene that regulates iron absorption and too much is stored in the organs causing damage over time. Affected people are usually diagnosed as adults.
Excess iron can be removed from the body by simply taking some blood as you would for a blood donation, and repeating this process over time. Some medications to help remove the iron are also available.
It is important that you work with your physician to determine if you have hemochromatosis, and if it is inherited or acquired. Genetic testing is available through DNA Direct or your physician to determine if the inherited form applies to you.
Regardless of the cause of your possible hemochromatosis, your drinking history indicates you may have a problem with alcohol. Alcohol is probably making your anxiety issues worse, too, not better. I urge you to seek out an experienced alcohol counselor. There are many people who have been in your shoes and can help you find healthier ways to self medicate. Alcoholics Anonymous is a great place to get started. http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org
Hemochromatosis is caused by increased iron absorption in the intestines, and accumulation of excess iron in the liver and other organs. Hemochromatosis can be acquired or inherited. The acquired form can occur from a high intake of iron, or a liver disease where the liver is no longer able to control the intake of iron. Excess alcohol use that damages the liver and causes cirrhosis can be a contributing factor.
Inherited hemochromatosis is caused by a problem in the gene that regulates iron absorption and too much is stored in the organs causing damage over time. Affected people are usually diagnosed as adults.
Excess iron can be removed from the body by simply taking some blood as you would for a blood donation, and repeating this process over time. Some medications to help remove the iron are also available.
It is important that you work with your physician to determine if you have hemochromatosis, and if it is inherited or acquired. Genetic testing is available through DNA Direct or your physician to determine if the inherited form applies to you.
Regardless of the cause of your possible hemochromatosis, your drinking history indicates you may have a problem with alcohol. Alcohol is probably making your anxiety issues worse, too, not better. I urge you to seek out an experienced alcohol counselor. There are many people who have been in your shoes and can help you find healthier ways to self medicate. Alcoholics Anonymous is a great place to get started. http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org
