Hemochromatosis

[Krickets]

I am positive for hemochromatosis and am now in maintenance, my sister 5 years younger just tested positive for hemochromatosis, her ferritin levels were 178 but has very high liver numbers and just found out she also has diabetes! She also is hypothyroid with hashimototes , my question is did the HH cause the liver problems and diabetes even if her ferritin levels are not to high ? We see the oncologist next week to find out more about liver and I’m sure he will start phlebotomy ASAP and do a biopsy of her liver. I’m confused about the liver being so bad, she is not a drinker . Thank you

[radd]

Krickets,

Welcome to our forum.

Haemochromotosis is well documented for causing liver cirrhosis but I would say its more likely the hypothyroidism that is causing elevated liver enzymes.

If I were her, before having a liver biopsy which is a very intrusive investigative procedure, I would be looking to eliminate possible inadequate thyroid hormone replacement or mismanaged Hashimotos. GP’s are notorious for dosing by the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) keeping many patients under-medicated, and elevated thyroid antibodies can inhibit replacement meds from working well. On the ThyroidUK forum you will see many members whose elevated liver enzymes reduce when optimally medicated with effective meds.

If diabetes is type 2, this could be tied up with adrenal hormones that help balance blood glucose levels but become compromised when supporting inadequate or ineffective thyroid hormone meds. Insulin resistance & hypoglycaemic issues are common in Hashi.

I have both Hashimotos & haemochromotosis and would say the Hashi being an autoimmune disease is a lot more tricky to look after, but of course we never really know what is driving what.

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hashimotoshealing.com/hashi...

[Krickets in reply to radd]

Thank you so much!!!!

[Madlegs1 in reply to radd]

I would very much agree about avoiding liver biopsy.. outdated and dangerous. Perfectly good scans are now available at any competent clinic.All the best to you both.