At what age did you get diagnosed with iron overload / hemochromatosis?
52
At what age did you start feeling symptoms?
48
What were your symptoms?
- Pain in joints like hips or knees
- Abdominal pain
- Weight gain
- Dizziness
- Brain fog
- Anxiety
- Low sex drive
- Constipation
- Bloat
- Hair loss
- Fatigue / feeling tired
- Over-sleeping
Which symptoms affected you the most?
The over-sleep and low libido.
When you got diagnosed, what was the treatment plan your doctor gave you?
Bloodletting once a month for 3 months and then another test.
How did your family, friends, and peers react when you told them you have iron overload / hemochromatosis?
My aunt told me it's genetic and she is also a sufferer.
Did you continue to experience any symptoms after your diagnosis? How do you feel today?
Feeling much better after the first bloodletting.
Do you have any tips or advice for others struggling with iron overload / hemochromatosis?
Take it easy. It is not the end of the world. You will be ok. Just follow Dr orders.
Anything else you want to say?
Read your food labels.
Fun facts:
I am staying in a hunting farm in Namibia.
I love long walks on the farm with the dogs.
I love crosswords, puzzles, knitting for my 2 daughters and making my own clothes.
My first language is afrikaans.