Hemochromatosis Support Group
Hemochromatosis is a hereditary disease characterized by improper processing by the body of dietary iron which causes iron to accumulate in a number of body tissues, eventually causing organ dysfunction. It is the main iron overload disorder. Hemochromatosis is notorious for having symptoms that are often initially misattributed to other diseases.
Hello All
Im new to the site but not new to Hemochromatosis. I was diagnosed in 2009 after being checked following my Dad’s passing with Hemochromatosis as the root cause (he never knew he had it and by the time he did he had diabetes, heart failure, liver disease etc).
I have had a ton of phlebotomies even though my levels were only about 450 when originally diagnosed. Some experiences are better than other but a lot of trips end up in multiple sticks, constant playing with needle and many times not getting as much as they set out to. Its been suggested to use asprin the days leading up to my visit. Does anyone else do this? Any other things to help with blood flow? Is blood thats to thick for them to draw or that clots off something to be concerned about in terms of heart attack or stroke?
Also what level do your doctors want you to be at as a target goal?
Thanks in advance for any replies.
I have been advised to have my phlebotomies in the afternoon as the body is better hydrated - I always book afternoon appointments now.
I drink plenty of water the day before and on the day of treatment. Being well-hydrated really makes a difference.
I have had dozens of phlebotomies now but last time the nurse used an ultrasound scanner to find a bigger vein than the ones that were being used before - and which he said was quite small. The larger one that he identified meant the phlebotomy was much less painful than previously.
I also have a small amount of anaesthetic cream put on the site of the phlebotomy for around 20 minutes before hand.
These three things have made the biggest difference.
To keep my stress levels down I work from home on the day that I have treatment. I always leave early to go to the clinic so I don't have to worry about not being able to find a park - which would be stressful. I have also found a nice cafe so I park my car, have a nice lunch and drink and read for a while. I then go along to the clinic a bit early and settle myself down with another drink and further reading. My blood pressure measures low at the beginning and end of treatment so this works for me.
I hope you both can find things that make it more comfortable for you.
Christine