Buzz…buzzz…buzz…I have been busy as a bee getting ready for this weekend. Because come heck or high water I am having my annual Presidents’ Day Celebration! I am so very excited. I am dressing up as James Madison this year. (Last year I went as Mary Todd Lincoln.) Yes, I know, Madison was a guy! But it’s perfect…I going to spray my hair white and put it in back in a pony tail (they used to call it a “queue”), wear knickers and ballet slippers; and bonus! JM and I are (or were) 5’4″! It was either him or Mamie Eisenhower…and I just don’t have the strength this year for all that pink!
I will update soon, probably Monday, about the latest diagnosis and my wonderful new doctor! Tuesday, I’ll be getting a phlebotomy! So have an amazing weekend! GOD BLESS the USA!
PS: Tom will be reprising Abraham Lincoln this year.
Foods containing calcium such as cottage cheese, yogurt, carrots, etc are great for slowing down iron absorbtion.
Too much iron in the liver is worse than booze.
Drinks that have tannins work very well also. Black tea and my favorite, green tea are very helpful. Most herb teas do not contain tannins.
Vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron. It is wise only to consume a moderate amount and not take Vitamin C tablets. Vitamin C has been known to precipitate heart palpitations in those with hemochromatosis.
The ingestion of black tea has been shown to decrease the absorption of iron. African tea which is becoming popular may contain iron so too much should not be consumed.
Patients with hemochromatosis should not take supplements unless there are documented deficiencies.
In severe HH the disorder manifests as potentially life threatening conditions such as septicemia, cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer, diabetes, heart failure and heart arrhythmias.
Hemochromatosis sufferrers should drink lots of water every day to keep the blood thin for easier phlebotomies and to keep the kidneys nice and flushed out.
For people who are diagnosed and treated early, normal life spans are possible. If left untreated, HH will lead to critical organ damage and most likely death.
You can find lots of real life tips from Pat at his blog
I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your excellent information, Pat! I too, have really learned to appreciate tea. I had no idea that carrots were a good source of calcium. Keep your wonderful comments coming…I hope all of our readers will consider clicking on your blog and continuing their education regarding hemochromatosis! People need to be made aware of this medical condition and get themselves checked when they’re feeling achey, depressed, or fatigued! It’s amazing to think some simple blood tests could save a life! Kudos to you and thanks!