Haemochromatosis, also known as iron overload, is a disorder in which your body accumulates excessive iron. A lot of the time, it’s genetic. It can cause significant harm to your organs, including your heart, liver, and pancreas. Although there is no way to prevent the condition, early identification and therapy can help avoid, delay, or reverse the progression of organ damage.

What Is Haemochromatosis Gene Testing?
It is a type of haemochromatosis blood test used to assess for hereditary haemochromatosis, a hereditary illness that makes the body absorb too much iron. The iron subsequently builds up in the blood, liver, heart, skin, and other organs.

Through its initial stages, this condition can produce hip and stomach/abdomen discomfort, tiredness, motivation loss, and weight loss. It can also leave a scar on the liver, discolouration of the skin, diabetes, infertility, heart problems, arrhythmia, and arthritis. But several individuals do not exhibit early symptoms.

Men are often diagnosed with hereditary haemochromatosis between 40 and 60. Women are not frequently diagnosed with it until beyond menopause since, up until that point, they lose blood and iron regularly throughout their monthly menstrual cycles.

How Do You Prepare for the Test?
In most cases, no extra preparation is necessary before undergoing the blood test. Frequently, genetic tests have ethical, legal, or societal ramifications. However, you may choose to see a genetic counsellor before deciding on testing.
Genetic counsellors are trained to communicate accurately about the test and its outcomes. A genetic counsellor can assist you in making educated choices.

Consult your doctor if you have doubts about the necessity of the hemochromatosis blood test, its risks, procedure, or the interpretation of the results. To assist you in comprehending the significance of this test, complete the medical test information form.

How Is It Performed?
The health expert who draws a blood sample will:

– Tie straps around your upper arm to healthy blood flow. It enlarges the veins beneath the band, making it simpler to insert a needle.
– Use alcohol to clean the needle site.
– Insert a needle into the vein. Multiple needle sticks may be required.
– Fill the needle with blood by attaching a tube to it.
– When sufficient blood has been taken, release the strap from your arm.
-Place a linen pad or cotton ball over the puncture site as the needle is withdrawn.
– Apply pressure to the area and then bandage it.

Conclusion
A haemochromatosis blood test is essential in diagnosing the condition, and can mean for early treatment. With patients often suffering from extreme fatigue and abdominal discomfort, this health condition is unpleasant and can lead to a number of organ complications if left untreated for a period of time. You can speak to your health provider with any concerns you may have regarding haemochromatosis and they will offer you professional, medical advice.