What causes hemochromatosis?
HHC is one of the most common genetic diseases. A genetic disease is one that runs in families. HHC is more common in men than in women. It is also more common in Caucasians (white people). What are the signs and symptoms of hemochromatosis? • People usually do not know they have HHC at first, because signs and symptoms may not happen right away. Signs and symptoms often begin in people between the ages of 30 and 50. Some people do not ever get symptoms. • If you drink alcohol or eat a diet high in iron, symptoms of HHC can be worse. Women may have milder symptoms because they lose blood during menses (monthly periods). If you donate blood, your HHC symptoms may also be milder. HHC is usually diagnosed and treated before later signs of the disease appear. • Early signs and symptoms of HHC may include: • Lack of sex drive. Males may have impotence (unable to maintain an erection). • Joint pain (most often of the fingers, knees, feet, wrists, back, and neck). • Loss of body hair. • Loss
