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Hemochromatosis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides specialized care for hemochromatosis, preventing iron overload complications. With advanced testing, genetic screenings, and therapeutic phlebotomy, he creates individualized treatment plans to restore your iron balance and improve overall health.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Hereditary hemochromatosis (ICD-10: E83.1)
Positive family history of hemochromatosis
Repeated blood transfusions or chronic anemia
Certain liver diseases or rare blood disorders
Male gender or postmenopausal women
Northern European ancestry
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent fatigue or weakness
Joint pain, especially in hands or knees
Abdominal discomfort or bloating
Bronze or grayish skin tone
Irregular or rapid heartbeat
Unintended weight loss and reduced appetite
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Hemochromatosis?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
She reviews your symptoms—like epigastric discomfort or joint pain—along with family history of iron overload, alcohol use, and other risk factors.
Blood Tests
We measure serum ferritin, transferrin saturation, and liver enzymes to assess iron burden and rule out other causes of liver injury.
Genetic Testing
Analysis of HFE gene mutations (C282Y, H63D) to confirm hereditary hemochromatosis.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound or MRI to detect iron deposition in the liver and evaluate organ health.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
In select cases, a liver biopsy quantifies tissue iron concentration and excludes other causes of epigastric pain or liver disease.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for hemochromatosis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Limit red meat and avoid iron-fortified foods
Avoid vitamin C with meals to reduce iron absorption
Cut back on alcohol to protect your liver
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
2. Medications
Iron chelators to bind and remove excess iron
Use supplements only if needed—and never those containing iron
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Therapeutic phlebotomy: outpatient blood draws to lower iron levels
Advanced liver imaging (MRI, FibroScan) to monitor organ health
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is hemochromatosis diagnosed?
We check iron levels, run genetic tests, and may scan the liver or perform a biopsy if needed.
What's the ICD-10 code?
It's E83.1 for hereditary hemochromatosis.
Can diet fix it alone?
No. Diet helps, but most people need therapeutic phlebotomy or medications to control iron levels.
Is phlebotomy safe?
Yes. It's a safe outpatient blood draw. Some patients feel lightheaded, but we monitor you closely.
What else causes high iron?
Blood transfusions, liver disease, certain anemias, or genetic conditions can also lead to iron overload.
How often will I need treatment?
Initially, you may have weekly phlebotomies. Once iron levels normalize, treatment often reduces to every few months.
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