I have been told I have raised ferritin. What are the implications?
I have stopped alcohol on medical advise.
I have been told I have raised ferritin. What are the implications?
I have stopped alcohol on medical advise.
Was this discovered through liver function tests? Mine was and like you I stopped alcohol immediately. After a couple of months of no drinking I asked for further tests. Many of my lfts were improved but not my ferritin. One of the tests to investigate further was for haemachromatosis which in simple terms is a genetic disorder. Iron overload disorder. Needs attention if that is your case! I have also had ultrasound and fibrosound scans to see if any damage has been done to my liver. I am of the opinion its best to know..and then it can be dealt with. Stopping drinking is a no brainer...but the first 21 days is the hardest! Well done you!
Mherbie is right. You may need to push your GP for the genetic test if your ferritin levels are still high - it costs in the region of £50 as opposed to £2 or so for the ferritin test.
High ferritin can be caused by a number of things including alcohol which is why you are going for a retest. Not drinking, however, is definitely good for the liver!
Meant to say that if you do get a diagnosis of genetic haemochromatosis, you will find lots of useful information on the Haemochromatosis website hemochromatosis.org.uk
Thanks Mike - All good info. To a newcomer to elated ferritin level. Dennis