By the time symptoms show up, there may be permanent damage to your vital organs. So detecting hemochromatosis early is critical, particularly if you have a parent or sibling who has the disease, says Margit Krikker, M.D., founder and president of the Hemochromatosis Foundation. Ask your doctor to do a blood test called transferrin saturation index, which shows how much iron is in your blood. Stay away from supplements. Never take iron supplements without your doctor's permission, Dr. Sullivan advises.
Some women assume that when they feel worn down, they have iron-poor blood.
But hemochromatosis can also cause fatigue, and taking supplements could make your symptoms worse. Eat a healthy diet. While avoiding iron-rich foods may seem to be sensible, it isn't that practical or wise, says Dr. Krikker. That's because many iron-laden vegetables and meats such as potatoes, broccoli and tuna also have other indispensable nutrients. Other important foods are fortified with iron, such as cereals and grains.