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Hemochromatosis

At GastroDoxs, Dr. Rishi Chadha provides comprehensive hemochromatosis care in Houston, specializing in early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. Through advanced testing, lifestyle guidance, phlebotomy, and expert management, patients receive compassionate support to protect their organs and improve overall well-being.

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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Hereditary hemochromatosis (ICD-10: E83.11): A genetic mutation passed through families causes most cases.
  • Age and gender: Men and post-menopausal women have a higher risk.
  • Ethnicity: More common in people of Northern European descent.
  • Family history: Having a parent or sibling with hemochromatosis raises your risk.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Joint pain, especially in the hands and knees
  • Pain or a sense of fullness in the stomach area
  • Bronze or gray skin discoloration
  • In women: irregular periods or early menopause

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses Hemochromatosis?

Dr. Chadha uses a clear, step-by-step approach:

Medical & Family History

Reviews your personal health, symptoms and family history to assess hereditary risk.

Blood Tests

Orders serum ferritin and transferrin saturation to measure iron stores and transport.

Genetic Testing

Performs HFE gene analysis to identify common mutations linked to hemochromatosis.

Imaging or Biopsy

Uses MRI-based iron quantification or, if needed, liver biopsy to evaluate organ iron loading.

Confirmation & Planning

Integrates all results to confirm iron overload and tailor your treatment plan.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of treatment options for hemochromatosis.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Eat less red meat and avoid iron-fortified cereals
  • Skip vitamin C supplements or high-C foods with meals (to reduce iron absorption)
  • Limit or eliminate alcohol intake to protect your liver
  • Include calcium-rich foods (they help block iron uptake)

2. Medications

  • Iron chelation therapy � for patients unable to tolerate phlebotomy
  • Liver support agents � prescription medicines or supplements to maintain liver health

3. In-Office and Advanced Procedures

  • Therapeutic phlebotomy � a quick, safe way to lower iron levels by drawing blood
  • MRI iron quantification � non-invasive scans to measure liver iron concentration
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes hereditary hemochromatosis?

A gene mutation in the HFE gene causes the body to absorb and store too much iron.

What is the ICD-10 code?

Primary hemochromatosis is coded as E83.11.

How do doctors diagnose it?

Through blood tests (serum ferritin, transferrin saturation), genetic testing for HFE mutations, and, if needed, imaging or liver biopsy.

Can women get hemochromatosis?

Yes. Women often develop symptoms later than men, sometimes manifesting as irregular periods or early menopause.

Is it dangerous if untreated?

Yes. Excess iron can damage the liver, heart, pancreas, joints, and other organs.

How often is phlebotomy needed?

Initially, weekly phlebotomy is common. Maintenance sessions are less frequent once iron levels normalize.

Can I manage it with diet alone?

No. While dietary changes help limit iron intake, medical treatments like phlebotomy or chelation are required to remove excess iron.

Is phlebotomy safe?

Yes. It's a quick, safe procedure. You may feel light-headed, and Dr. Chadha monitors you throughout.

Should I get genetic testing?

Yes. Genetic testing confirms hereditary risk, guides family screening, and helps tailor your care plan.

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