It is considered rare and doctors may not think to test for it. The initial symptoms can be diverse and vague and can mimic the symptoms of many other diseases. However, if hemochromatosis is diagnosed and treated before organ damage has occurred, a person can live a normal, healthy life. Because of the other problems associated with hemochromatosis, several other specialists may be on the treatment team, such as an endocrinologist, hematologist, cardiologist, or rheumatologist. Internists or family practitioners can also treat the disease.
Treatment is simple, inexpensive, and safe.
The first step is to rid the body of excess iron. The process is called phlebotomy, which means removing blood. Depending on how severe the iron overload is, a pint of blood will be taken once or twice a week for several months to a year, and occasionally longer. Blood ferritin levels will be tested after every 4 phlebotomies to monitor iron levels. The goal is to bring blood ferritin levels to the low end of normal and keep them there.